Rob,
I still have the Rule but I am also installing a diaphragm pump like Woody is talking about. The only place I have found to install the diaphragm pump is in under the settee next to the batteries. I got the pump used from a marine consignment shop. We are in Annapolis this week and I am hoping to pickup the hosing, float switch and other stuff this week.
My plan is to have a bonze pickup and the float switch in the forward section of the bilge. Run the hose into the settee storage where I am making a small platform to mount the diaphragm pump. Then run the hose back into the bilge and follow the exiting bilge pump hoses up to the manifold Catalina installed to combine the manual and automatic bilge pumps. I am going to make a new manifold out of PVC that will combine the two automatic bilge pumps and manual. That way I don't have to add another hole to the boat.
I am leaning towards the
Smart Bilge Switch and Alarm. The panel would be wired directly to the batteries with a properly sized fuse at the battery.
I will post pics when I get it done but I don't suspect that will be for a couple of weeks.
Side note on the Rule or any bilge pump for that matter. Remove the check valve Catalina installed. This is a common failure point and if you don't believe me search on Maine Sail bilge pumps and check valves and you can read some good examples he has posted.
Good luck and fair winds,
Jesse
