Is a bilge pump possible for a 1985 Invader V170?

[fostersds]

I am thinking about installing a bilge pump in my 1984 Invader V170, it currently has a drain hole. Is this even possible and if so, what is the easiest way to accomplish it? I have yet to look to see if I can remove fuel tank and possibly install it there but any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I have had the boat for about 4 years and am still learning about being a boat owner.

 

[GA_Boater]

You can add and should add a bilge pump to the boat. Is she an IO or outboard? She doesn't have one now?

 

[fostersds]

It is a 115hp Mercury outboard right now and currently it does not have a bilge pump. It just has the drain plug that I have to be sure to remember to put in every time, which I have almost forgot a couple times. OOPS

 

[GA_Boater]

A pump should go in the lowest part of the bilge, which is normally at the transom. Some pics would help.

 

[fostersds]

Ok, Thank you. I can post some pictures tonight after work. I didn't know if I could access the bilge via the fuel tank or if I would have to cut a hole in the boat to install it.

 

[Watermann]

Not sure I've seen a boat without an opening for the bilge. Up under your splashwell there should be a cutout in the decking to accommodate a bilge pump. Attaching it will be the next question, you'll either have to attach it to a stringer or use adhesive to secure it to the bottom. Both methods have their pitfalls and degree of difficulty while working on your belly under there at arms length. Then of course the ground, fused power and helm wiring.

 

[fostersds]

I do have access to the bilge but it is all the way up front by the wheel and windshield console. I don't see a way to install the pump through there since it is a good 8 feet to the rear of the boat but then, that is why I am here asking for expert advice.

 

[GA_Boater]

I said the pump is in front of the transom at the lowest spot in the bilge. In the back of the boat in the opening Watermann mentioned.

Mounting a pump by the helm is not the right location. It will be under the splashwell.

 

[fostersds]

Ok, my bad. The only access I might have to under the splash well might by under the fuel tank but I haven't removed that yet to determine that. I am waiting till we get rid of our snow and the temperature get above 30 degrees.

 

[GA_Boater]

When you have a chance, get a couple of pics under the splashwell.

 

[fostersds]

Ok, I will do that this evening. Thanks for all the advice and help.

 

[fostersds]

Ok, I took pictures under the splashwell and saw that was space to place a bilge pump. I tried to upload the picture but it exceeded the size limit. However, I am now looking at a Johnson Bilge pump. Is that a decent pump? Also, what would be the recommended method of sealing the existing drain hole?

 

[GA_Boater]

If you are talking about the drain that exits though the bottom of the transom with the drain plug, you don't do anything. It is needed to drain the hull and if you live in a place with invasive species in the lake, the state requires a way to drain the hull. Just don't forget to put the plug in.


No experience with Johnson pumps. I usually use Rule pumps.

 

[fostersds]

Sounds good. Thanks so much for the help and advice. It is greatly appreciated.

 

[Watermann]

If not so equipped you will have create a hole in the the side hull towards the stern and below the gunnel to put the bilge pump fitting through.

 

[fhhuber]

I've installed an after-market bilge pump in a boat with the exit hole in the splash-well. Works fine as long as its off to the side far enough and back far enough that it doesn't sent the water at the outboard and the majority goes past the transom.

I did it to put in a 1500 gph pump as a second bilge pump when the 19 ft hull came with a 500 gph bilge pump... Both on float switches with the higher capacity one's float triggering with water 1 inch higher than what triggered the smaller pump.

1500 will keep up with the inflow if the drain plug is not installed. 500 won't. Being able to keep up with the inflow makes it easier to get the boat back on the trailer so you can put the plug in. (after forgetting the plug once and having an inadequate pump you probably won't forget again... but you will decide you want a bigger pump)

 

[fostersds]

I was looking at a Johnson 750gph pump and was thinking of putting the hole on one of the sides, haven't decided yet, underneath the splash well. Would that work? I haven't decided on a float trigger or a switch. Any suggestions?

 

[Watermann]

You can get a pump with an integrated float switch.
http://www.iboats.com/Rule-Mate-tra...502740--session_id.946639201--view_id.1024156

I think above he's talking about feeding the pump output line up through the splashwell rigging hole and then out the back overboard. I recommend the through the hull fitting and proper clamps to do the job correctly.

 

[roffey]

I find it odd you don't have a pump in a 1985 boat. It's like not having a heater in a car. Maybe you already have the pump and don't know it. Nor trying to ne a smart guy here. If I were selling my boat I would not tell you it had a automatic bilge I would assume......

 

[fostersds]

If there is a pump in there, I have not found it or the output hole or anything. Not saying it isn't possible but obviously I got the boat at least second hand and who knows what it orginally came with.
Is a 750gph pump too small for a 17ft boat? Mind you, all we have a small lakes here in central montana.