The blue "Sure Bail" float switch on our bilge pump failed completely. It floated up and down but would not switch "on". This is the second Sure Bail that has given up the ghost (although the other one was on another boat). They are standard on most Hunters I replaced it with a simple uncased Rule switch. It seems a little cheap and you would hate for a $26.99 part to sink an expensive boat. Anybody else had similar experience with the Sure Bail? Is there a switch that somebody is WELL PLEASED with?
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Float switch
I have been using one of the electronic switches for a couple of years now and am very satisfied. It's one of those with the two little probes instead of a float. Seems to be totally unaffected by oil or other flotsam, and has always worked perfectly. Cost a couple of bucks more than the rules, but so far has been totally reliable.
I have been using one of the electronic switches for a couple of years now and am very satisfied. It's one of those with the two little probes instead of a float. Seems to be totally unaffected by oil or other flotsam, and has always worked perfectly. Cost a couple of bucks more than the rules, but so far has been totally reliable.
They will all go bad sometime
I have had the Hunter supplied Sure-Bail go bad, but I have also had Rule switches go bad. The electronic switches will go bad sometimes too. Anything electrical or mechanical has the ability to quit working. Bill
I have had the Hunter supplied Sure-Bail go bad, but I have also had Rule switches go bad. The electronic switches will go bad sometimes too. Anything electrical or mechanical has the ability to quit working. Bill
Rule failed
I have had a couple of Rule switches fail. I think the mercury-type switches are prone to failure.
I have had a couple of Rule switches fail. I think the mercury-type switches are prone to failure.
Maintenance replacement
I have come to regard my bilge float switch as a regular maintenance replacement item. I have found that these float switches begin to fail after about two years regardless of manufacturer. I now replace the switch every two years along with my raw water impeller. It is cheap insurance. A back-up switch, wire in parallel is also a good idea.
I have come to regard my bilge float switch as a regular maintenance replacement item. I have found that these float switches begin to fail after about two years regardless of manufacturer. I now replace the switch every two years along with my raw water impeller. It is cheap insurance. A back-up switch, wire in parallel is also a good idea.
Parallel Wiring and maintenance
Two problems with parallel wiring is first who is going to post the diagram; and two I don't really want a bilge full of parts. I like the maintenance idea, but do you use quick connect fitting or re-solder every time?
Two problems with parallel wiring is first who is going to post the diagram; and two I don't really want a bilge full of parts. I like the maintenance idea, but do you use quick connect fitting or re-solder every time?
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