Bilge Pump

[manykids]

I have a new to me '79 Cobalt. The bilge has a toggle switch on the dash - no automatic switch. How difficult / expensive is it to put in an automatic switch below the transum?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Bilge Pump

If you put it below the transom it would be under the boat (sorry couldn't resist that!). Installing a float switch is not a problem. It will come with wiring instructions. You need a three position switch for OFF - MANUAL - AUTO operation. That switch may come with the float switch. In manual mode the float switch is bypassed and the bilge pump will run continuously until you turn it off. In AUTO mode the pump will run only if water rises in the bilge. The pump will run until the float drops and turns it off. OFF is --- well --- OFF.

 

[rottenray6402]

Re: Bilge Pump

I pracice over kill myself but you may want to consider installing a second pump with the automatic feature. This is especially important if you keep the boat in the waater all summer. You have a back up pump in case one dies or gets jammed with debris. I have been thankful several times for a spare pump in the boat.

 

[manykids]

Re: Bilge Pump

Thanks for the input. I will poke at the options available.