Bilge Pump Needed?

[Greg]

I bought a 89 wing keel Catalina 22 last fall. The boat was sailed in fresh water only. I plan to have it on a mooring in saltwater during the summer. My concern is what if a leak happens, there is no bilge pump. Besides the sink drain there is a knot meter as another thru hull fitting. The boat shows no signs of ever having a leak.Any suggestions as to the type and location of the bilge pump on a wing or fixed keel 22 would be appreciated.

 

[Robert]

Bilge Pump

I installed an automatic bilge on my C22 wing keel although it never had a drop of water in the bilge. Better safe than sorry. Find the lowest point in the bilge and place the pump at or as close to that point as possible. Mine was mounted under the bilge cover plate in front of the setee table. Hope this helps.

 

[Dick of Sylvan]

Agree with Robert

Bilge pumps are inexpensive and add a little insurance. I also carry a hand-operated pump in case my boat or another craft near me needs it. It has a long enough hose to reach outside the bilge into the self-draining cockpit.

 

[Tray Till]

pORTABLE PUMP

I had he same concer with my 1982 so I purchased a 1000 gph bilge pump and attached 10 feet of wire with a cigarette lighter adapter and 15 feet of 3/4" tubing. I keep it stowed under next to the battery. I've never had to use it for drainage but it is great for a deck washdown. Just drop it over the side and plug it in. Although low pressure results from the lift required from the waterline to the deck it is adequate for cleaning or even showering if in fresh water.