I have a problem with my Flojet 4125 bilge pump. Something is eating the rubber flapper valves that act as check valves in the pump. I've replaced the pump once, and after working with the manufacture to identify the problem, and then learning that chemical contamination is not covered under warranty, I've replaced the valve assembly four times. Twice I used an assembly with an alternative material type with no change. The pump will work for 2-3 weeks and then stop pumping. An inspection of the valves show that the check valves are blistered and have curled away from their seats.
These pumps are supposed to be impervious to anything normally found in a bilge: fuel, oil, anti-freeze, bleach, etc. The last time I replaced the valve assembly I filled and flushed the bilge four times. Same result.
The environment is this: A 1978 Ericson Cruising 36 sailboat with a 5' deep bilge. The Flojet pump was installed by the previous owner before I bought the boat 5 years ago, and worked flawlessly for the first 3 years. Then the problems started. I like the way the pump works and how it is mounted above the bilge for easy access, but I haven't found any solution to the problem. Can anyone suggest what might be eating away at my pump before I bite the bullet and drop a centrifugal pump into my bilge?
Thanks!
Joe
These pumps are supposed to be impervious to anything normally found in a bilge: fuel, oil, anti-freeze, bleach, etc. The last time I replaced the valve assembly I filled and flushed the bilge four times. Same result.
The environment is this: A 1978 Ericson Cruising 36 sailboat with a 5' deep bilge. The Flojet pump was installed by the previous owner before I bought the boat 5 years ago, and worked flawlessly for the first 3 years. Then the problems started. I like the way the pump works and how it is mounted above the bilge for easy access, but I haven't found any solution to the problem. Can anyone suggest what might be eating away at my pump before I bite the bullet and drop a centrifugal pump into my bilge?
Thanks!
Joe
