Access to forward bilge pump on 2020 RT 29 CB

[R29 Genansi]

How do you access the forward bilge pump located just forward of the engine on a 2020 RT 29 CB? My arms are not long enough and no room to squeeze in. It is not working in automatic nor in manual mode. The fuse is good. I may have to replace it but have to get to it first ! It is a Rule Bilge pump 27sa with many failure reported on this forum.

 

[S. Todd]

Please let me know if you find a way. Our forward pump still works but I know someday it won't. I have a young thin friend that is very tall. My only current plan is to ask him to take an 8-hour drive to the boat when I need to replace it. He loves to drive. I intend to put the replacement on some type of long arm that attaches to the bulkhead with screws that can be reached. Sometimes I just shake my head when see where boat manufacturers put things that need to be replaced on a somewhat regular basis. That boat should have been designed to be another half foot longer ( a true 29 footer without swim platform and bow pulpit ) and all that extra length should have been put just forward of the engine and then the belts could be accessed too.

 

[Mastercraft]

I have a Johnson pump in my 2017 R29, so it is slightly different. I got my forward and aft pumps out. It wasn't easy. I got an extra pump first. That way I learned exactly how it unsnaps. I am 5'8", 180 lbs, and age 66. I have two pairs of the longest needle nose at Ace hardware for extending my hands for tight places on boat. They are at least 11". Just have patience and be creative in the tight spaces. And have band-aids. Less chance of needing band-aids if using latex gloves and you can still move fingers sufficiently.