C302 outboard engine bracket/pod bilge pump

[Paige_A]

Our C302 outboard engine pod area completely flooded last week to the point where the stern deck plates popped out completely from the pressure of the water. Though we have still not confirmed what happened (have not been able to recreate the "leak"), we ordered the Armstrong deck plates per the prior posts on this topic. However we have also discovered that the bilge pump in the pod keeps blowing its fuse (7.5 A). We want to replace the bilge pump but we do not know if we can physically get to it. Has anyone replaced their bilge pump in the outboard engine pod, and if so, how?

 

[MarcoArias]

Hi,

I have been able to replace and/or install bilge pumps via the deck plates. To verify that you have no leaks, please fill up the pod (with the bilge pump fuse out) while the boat is on the hard, and visually inspect the under side of the pod for any water leaking out. Please feel free to email me at marcoarias@rangertugs.com for any other questions.

 

[BB marine]

I am surprised that this issue still exist with any C302 models. There was an issue similar to this that turned catastrophic for the former C302 owner. 2018 model C302 Cutwater. While the findings of Fluid Motion were never disclosed one would think that every C302 owner would have been notified and proper repairs made through service bulletins, dealerships or the factory. The former owner designed a website with an explanation of the incident which is no longer available for viewing but in the explanation of failure based only on the owner (not Fluid Motions root cause) The leak was not caused by a hull leak. The conclusion that was posted by the former owner was the deck plates were non sealing bulk head plates and improperly sealed engine control cables passing thru the bulkhead mounted to low and caused the water intrusion. It was also suggested by the marine surveyor at that time of survey, installation of a larger bilge pump should have been installed, as found 1100 GPH and suggested was 2500GPH for this application. It was also noted that the underwater thru hull from the well drain had no check valve installed. My opinion. If this was my boat or if I owned a C302 I would call Fluid Motion customer service, good people to deal with and knowledgable about their product. Get any and all information as to possible causes of water intrusion, do a full inspection. The obvious was already addressed previous post (leaking from the hull) or where the pod is mounted to the hull. They build it, they should be able to tell you where to look and how and where to get it fixed if an issue is found. Good Luck.

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