Hi Ted,
On Wyanokee we use two hoses from the bilge, one large for the Gusher
hand pump and a smaller diameter that attaches to the automatic bilge
pump (such as you have). The hoses are joined in a Y after the Gusher
to a single exit hose to the thru hull. I've had varying results with a
foot valve in the automatic bilge pump line. When it does work it has
been a help to prevent water backing up into the bilge. There's been a
number of discussions in the past on the advisability of using the foot
valve.
Dave Hoy
WYANOKEE #6295
Camden, Maine
ted glynn wrote:
I'm looking for advice on how to install an automatic bilge pump on my
82 Catalina 27. I'm still a new sailboater, having had mine less than
2 years now, so please forgive me if I use the wrong terms or don't
explain it well.
My bilge is very dry and clean, but I worry about a leak when I'm not
around, so would like to have the automatic bilge on "stand by" when
I'm gone. I bought a Rule-Mate 500 automated bilge pump and 3-way
lighted panel switch. I think I can figure out the electrical part ok.
My first though was that I could use the same hose from the bilge
that leads to the manual bilge pump in the compartment aft of the
tiller and somehow, via a system of Y or T fittings and check valves,
use the same thru-hull on the transom (which is above the water line).
In other words, both manual and automatic bilge pumps would be
operational (sort of "in parallel"), using largely the same hoses and
thru-hull.
My first choice would be to run a second hose out the aft of my bilge,
and have a totally redundant hose system, but there doesn't seem to be
much room for it. I also know check-valves can be trouble if they fail.
I've kicked it around with other sailboaters on my dock without
complete agreement on whether it would work, or would one siphon the
other, etc.
Any advice, pictures, diagrams, etc. would be appreciated.
Ted Glynn
Rayo de Luna
1982 Catalina 27 standard rig
Jefferson Beach Marina, St. Clair Shores, MI
