Auto bilge pumps?

[Ludlowchang]

This is my first winter with my 2021 C24. The boat is moored at Ludlow Marina and I stop by this week to check on the boat only to find out all three bilge are filled with water. Can I assume I don’t have the “auto bilge pump” feature on my boat?

 

[gswearin]

Hi Ludlowchang,
Your boat should have automatic bilge pumps. If its like mine (R29) they are Rule pumps that cycle every few minutes to check for water. These pumps do have a propensity to go out or wires getting corroded such that the auto doesn't work but manual does. In your case its unlikely all three pumps went out so there may be another issue. They should be wired directly to the battery.

 

[Rocky Lou]

Most likely you have the automatic Rule Bilge pump 27sa, like the one pictured here. Take a look for the model number. There are many threads on these pumps, mostly about how they fail due to a variety of causes. Some have replaced them with standard pumps and separate float switches. I've changed 4 so far on my 2019 CW and carry 1-2 spares. Often the automatic function fails, but, the pump will still operate with the switch. I did manage to get one for free as the package is marked 'lifetime guarantee".

 

[Jcat2010]

If the manual dashboard switches work, but the auto on every 2.5 min isn't working it could be the circuit board on the pump has failed. It could also be that the connections to the pump wires were made too close to the pump and were in the bulge and have corroded.

I replace mine, when they fail, with an integrated float switch model that fits in the same space, same bolt pattern, etc. I still prefer the capacitive type float switch, as they rarely fail, and don't waste as much power.

 

[Ludlowchang]

Many thanks