Bilge Pump Float Switch

[Concerto]

The Rule float switch has failed (again) on my 2002 310. The last time I replaced it the closest fit for a new model was too big for the space in the bilge. A little modification, (cutting off two mounting ears) and it fit. Does anyone know of a float switch that is the same size as the old model OEM switch? Thanks for any help and fair winds to all as the season comes to an end on Long Island Sound.

 

[marchem]

The Rule float switch has failed (again) on my 2002 310. The last time I replaced it the closest fit for a new model was too big for the space in the bilge. A little modification, (cutting off two mounting ears) and it fit. Does anyone know of a float switch that is the same size as the old model OEM switch? Thanks for any help and fair winds to all as the season comes to an end on Long Island Sound.

I've got a Johnson pump (Johnson Pump 1000 GPH Bilge Pump 3/4" 12V Dura Ports, http://amazon.com/gp/product/B00MYSU9V6), with a Water Witch sensor. I think that's the sensor Jessie recommends, although he's got a different (and much better) bilge pump set up. This is a picture before I removed the check valve and replaced both the manual and electric bilge pump hoses.

 

[JK_Boston_Catalina310]

I am now using the Aqualarm after having a number of issues with Water Witch. It's mounted on the stringer in the bilge.

 

[marchem]

I am now using the Aqualarm after having a number of issues with Water Witch. It's mounted on the stringer in the bilge.

I can't keep up with you! . That looks like a better unit. I remember Maine Sail writing about that, or something very similar.

 

[Parsons]

After they removed the mercury switches, those paddle-type float switches are notoriously unreliable. Why not upgrade with a Water Witch electronic or Ultra Safety Systems? This is probably not a thing you want to get the cheapest available for.

 

[JK_Boston_Catalina310]

I can't keep up with you! . That looks like a better unit. I remember Maine Sail writing about that, or something very similar.

He likes the Ultra. I started testing the Aqualarm on my boat and the Sure Bail on my work boat. I like the Ultra but the Aqualarm is only $75 compared to $150 for the Ultra. Plus the Aqualarm I linked to has a 15 second delay in shutting off. So it works a little better for keeping our bilge as dry as possible.

 

[Justin_NSA]

I am now using the Aqualarm after having a number of issues with Water Witch. It's mounted on the stringer in the bilge.

Where did you mount the indicator and the siren? Would it make sense to mount one or the other in the cockpit? Maybe on the pedestal or engine panel?

 

[JK_Boston_Catalina310]

Where did you mount the indicator and the siren? Would it make sense to mount one or the other in the cockpit? Maybe on the pedestal or engine panel?
View attachment 157529

I mounted the buzzer in the bilge so I can here it when in bed. Eventually I would like to put another buzzer and indicator light at the helm. But that's part of a larger full redesign of the helm that I will get to one day.

 

[windward54]

Add us to the Water Witch group. The electronic switch solved two problems we were having. The float kept sticking, the last time causing some problems. And with the float switch, the water would pump out, and when the pump shut off, the water would flow back in. Seems like the water level would hit a sweet spot where the pump kept recycling. The Water Witch keeps the pump on for an extra 25 seconds and stopped this issue.

 

[KZW]

He likes the Ultra. I started testing the Aqualarm on my boat and the Sure Bail on my work boat. I like the Ultra but the Aqualarm is only $75 compared to $150 for the Ultra. Plus the Aqualarm I linked to has a 15 second delay in shutting off. So it works a little better for keeping our bilge as dry as possible.

Did you retain the check valve?

My check valve, unknown to me, had intermittent failure (failing slightly open). Given the long run to the through hull, the pump would cycle. I went through three pumps before finding the real issue.

 

[JK_Boston_Catalina310]

Did you retain the check valve?

My check valve, unknown to me, had intermittent failure (failing slightly open). Given the long run to the through hull, the pump would cycle. I went through three pumps before finding the real issue.

No. I removed it years ago. Actually the body of the valve is there, but I opened it at the clean out and removed the flap. The key is a float switch with a delay. The Aqualarm I posted has a 15 second delay and the Water Witch has a 25 second delay. Other floats have built in delays as well .

 

[Concerto]

Thank you all for your replies and helpful suggestions. I think the Aqualarm is the way to go and hopefully I won't be doing this every two seasons. Thanks again JK.

 

[MitchM]

went thru 2 rule mercury switches in 22 years and then 2 whales in less than 3. i now have the 'Ultra' which has worked faultlessly for 6....