Hi.....we've recently purchased a 2004 B323. The manual indicates that the bilge pump operates automatically and also manually by the panel switch. Can anyone confirm this operating arrangement and the location of the automatic float switch? I would like to check to ensure that it is functioning properly. Thanks for your help.
Automatic Bilge Float Switch Location in B323
- Thread starter Orion323
- Start date
- Status
Hmmm, I really doubt about the automatically.
Usually manuals mention one electrical and one manual. If there's an automatic float switch it must be inside or at least as close as possible to the sump.
Usually manuals mention one electrical and one manual. If there's an automatic float switch it must be inside or at least as close as possible to the sump.
The boat manual also includes a diagram of the bilge pump system with sump location. That is where your switch lays. The manual switch simply overrides the high water switch and turns on the common pump. It is quiet, so you likely won't hear it running. Regardless, start lifting sole boards until you find the bilge sump and switch - these are critical items that should be diagrammed and posted for all crew members awareness. Should be near the keel bolts. When you find the sump, fill it with water and observe that the switch activates the pump and it evacuates the water. Then do it again using the manual over-ride switch.
Find the pump also, check the intake filter and keep it clear of debris. Your system is the typical modern Beneteau setup.
Find the pump also, check the intake filter and keep it clear of debris. Your system is the typical modern Beneteau setup.
Just an additional thought to what Gunni said. Beneteau bilges are typically shallow yet they install float switches that won't actuate unless you have the great flood occur. Find the bilge, it'll be in the center of the salon, usually just aft of the mast compression post. There should be a float switch screwed to the base of the bilge. First simply lift the hinged float assembly. When lifted it should turn on your bilge pump. If it does take note how high the float was when the pump turned on. That will give you an idea of how much water is required before the pump will run to evacuate it. You may find that it's high enough that there would be quite a bit of water sloshing about before the pump runs. Note that the biggest source of water in the bilge is condensation from an air conditioner if so equipped. If no AC your chances of water in the bilge are slim and I wouldn't worry too much about it. If you do have AC and water accumulates then consider replacing the float switch with an electronic type. Water Witch makes a Mini 101 for apx $35-40 US. They have no moving parts and can usually be mounted in a variety of ways to accomodate shallow bilges. BTW if the pump doesn't run at all then you'll have to troubleshoot the circuit which is pretty easy. Good luck.
I dug out my 323 manual, and though it mentions an automatic mode, no one on the 323 web site says they have one from the factory- and have one and have opted to install their own. The manual also mentions a push-button reset (not a breaker), so if there ever was a bilge switch, it has been done away with to save production costs. Now you have to install one yourself for safety, not savings.
My 323 did not have an automatic switch for the bilge pump. I installed a float switch in the bilge as close to the pint size sump as i could get it. I actually stuck it to the bottom with 3M 5200, which I may regret some day. I installed a combination automatic/manual Rule bilge switch in the nav station. Fortunately, my boat is dry, I only end up getting water in the bilge when I am cleaning it.
- Status