R-21EC bilge sensors

[Newf]

I recently did a few checks on my bilge sensors as a result of a post by one of our Tugnut members. In the process of answering their question I found that my high water alarm sensor was not working. I trailer my boat, so in and out of the water on the same day and although I frequently test the sensor on the bilge pump I have rarely or maybe have never tested the high water alarm. Without realizing that there is a test position on the rocker switch I did the two finger test on the circles on the face of the sensor. Didn't work so traced the wiring and found a corroded/broken connection right in the middle of a heat shrink butt connector. My guess is that the connector was not properly crimped, maybe over crimped and damaged the heat shrink sleeve. A relatively easy fix but more importantly for those that leave their boats in the water, a working high water alarm would be important should the bilge pump fail. It could alert someone in the area and help prevent a flooding or worse case a sinking. A quick test on the rocker switch before leaving the boat would be a good item to add to your checklist. Be sure to put it in the armed position after.

I'm sure that most folks are already aware of this but I'm posting for those like me who seem to learn something new everyday.


On another note the sensor was ready to fall off the little mounting block. On mine the block is a piece of wood that's not glassed over was starting to rot at the screw locations. Made a temporary fix for now but will replace in near future with a waterproof material.