Bad Bilge

[Milt Songy]

I have a new 320, but my question is general.The bottom of the bilge area is uneven and there are "several" low spots. The bilge pump hose was not placed in any of these sump areas and could be moved. I would like to fill the bottom with something that would not permanently lock in the keel bolts, but would give me a smooth drain surface to create a nice sump. Has anyone ever done this and what did you use?Thanks.miltnemma@aol.com

 

[Ernie A]

Squeegee mop the answer

Hey, Milt--Your idea is slick, but probably impractical. Between the stuffing gland and rainwater coming down the mast, bilges collect insufficient water to pump but just enough to turn foul. No pump will suck the bilge completely dry, no matter how small the sump nor how leak-proff the check valve. The art of keeping the bilge clean and sweet is frequent use of the squeegee mop.Sorry --Ernie April