Bilge Pump problem

[Bevan Hill]

I need advice to solve a bilge pump problem. Some sort of fault caused the bilge pump on my 2009 R21 to fail. This was preceeded by a developing fault where it would automatically pump out then refuse to turn off. If I then toggled the manual switch on the panel, the pump would stop. However I then saw a remaining low glow in the switch indicator light. In retrospect I sensed this might be an indication that the pump was beginning to burn out or sieze, although the reason for the development of the fault is not obvious.
I purchased both an identical new Ultima sensor and a new identical Johnson pump. I installed both, being careful to replicate the correct linking of different coloured leads. I tested the pump by switching the manual switch on the panel and the pump works fine. However when I pressed the two rings to test the sensor the pump does not begin pumping but rather begins 'ticking' like a clock at about 3-4 ticks per second. Similarly when I poured water into the bilge, at the point when I would expect the pump to activate, again I hear this ticking sound but no pumping. I am stumped as to where the problem may lie. I have not found where a bilge pump fuse might be, but I'm assuming there is one but it can't have blown otherwise, presumably I wouldn't be able to activate the pump from the switch panel.
I'd be very grateful if you could reveal what secret lies behind the mystery.
Thankyou in anticipation, Bevan Hill

 

[Andrew Custis]

I would first start by checking the fuse to the automatic side of the float switch which i hooked directly to the battery as an inline fuse. Other than that, I would be checking ground wires and the main power wires to ensure they have a good connection right from the pump to the battery. This can be accomplished by doing an ohm test at the pump to the wire on the battery to ensure there is not a break in the wire somewhere.

 

[Bevan Hill]

Thankyou Andrew.
Once I traced the power lead of the float switch I discovered the secret. It went to the Starter Battery not the House battery where I assumed it sourced its power. I had not reinstalled the Starter battery whilst accessing everything in the bilge. So once I reconnected it everything was honky dory! Hence the panel switch activated from house power while the water sensor activated from starter power. That was the secret! You have relieved my great frustration and I am most appreciative. I'm also wondering how you came to be working at your computer at midnight on a Sunday??!!! Around midday Monday (West Australian time) for me was normal but you sound awfully dedicated to your work.
I can see that I need to convince you to take a holiday to this great location - West Australia. I'd love to host such a visit and treat you to the great area of the Peel Inlet and estuary etc. where we live.
Again thanks so much. Warm regards, Bevan Hill.

 

[Stella Maris]

Andrew, I would be packing that bag if I were you! An offer like that does not come around often!

 

[Andrew Custis]

Hello Bevan,

You are most certainly welcome. I am not always on key but I certainly try. Please dont hesitate to call me at anytime as you can reach me direct on my cell 253-230-0727.

PS: I would love to plan a trip to AU! Its getting close to organizing a Ranger Rendezvous on your end. That would certainly increase my chances of getting there!