Purpose of a Bilge Box

[mspring]

Is the only purpose of a bilge box to provide a way for the keel stringer to "split around" the bilge pump and contact the transom so that the transom pushes against all the stringers? Or does it somehow aid in the draining process?

 

[Mark42]

Re: Purpose of a Bilge Box

Lots, in fact I would venture to say most boats don't have a keel stringer. They usually have two running down the hull about a foot or so away from the keel. That leaves space for a ski locker, under deck fuel tank or other storage. Towards the aft there is usually space to put a bilge pump, its a little different configuration if you have an i/o, but the space is still there to collect any water so the pump can discharge it or pull the plug and drain it.