Manual Bilge Pump Mounting

Nov 23, 2011
87
Hunter H31 Kent Island Yacht Club
On the Hunter 31 1984 -
Has anyone mounted a manual bilge pump?
Where did you mount it?
I am thinking it might be a good idea.
Thanks
Mark
 
May 24, 2004
7,176
CC 30 South Florida
Are you thinking about a high volume gusher pump to be installed in the cockpit or referring to an electric bilge pump with a manual switch?
 
May 24, 2004
7,176
CC 30 South Florida
Ok, in your boat I would consider installing it on the side of the lazarette. Just make sure that the chosen location provides full range of movement for the removable pump handle and in the inside adequate room for the pump itself. The opening in the lazarette will facilitate installing the pick up hose and the discharge hose and it's thru-hull. In order to maintain practical use of the lazarette I would try to fit it near a corner. The pump should bring a template so that you could use to help cut the installation hole to size. Remember measure twice or three times and cut once. These pumps are a safety item and their purpose is to help fight a significant influx of water in an emergency. They are not designed and may not even prime properly for discharging small amounts of water in the bilge. The reason for my concern is that they are not really referred to as a bilge pump and I am afraid that perhaps you may have a different expectation in mind. The small electric pumps that service the bilge are mostly a convenience item installed to automatically remove small amounts of water that collect at the bilge. I have seen in some boats a 120V gusher pump usually installed in building basements to provide protection to a docked boat with shore power. I guess if the owner leaves the boat unattended for long periods of time such a pump might be warranted. Installing a manual safety gusher pump is never a bad idea especially if you intend to do some offshore or coastal cruising.