Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

[ajgraz]

Doing some renovation on a 1978 StarCraft 15' trihull.

The way the bilge pump is now set up, the 3/4" outlet hose just curls over and comes out the same grommet hole as the control cables and harness (green arrow in pic), empties into the splashwell, and drains out the splashwell drain hole (pink circle):

I don't like that for two reasons:
1) I don't like bilge water spraying directly onto the harness and control cables.
2) The splashwell drain hole is only about 3/4" ID itself; I'd want more drainage.

I am thinking of relocating the bilge outlet, probably involving installing a thru-hull to connect the bilge hose to. But which option on mounting location?

A) Somewhere else in the splashwell, and either enlarge or drill a second splashwell drain hole.
B) Either the stern (blue circle), or
C) Side (yellow circle)
(either way, about 12" above waterline):

EDIT: I guess I could just get a longer hose and hang it over the back of the transom, but I want something a little "cleaner" looking than that.

Opinions?

 

[Mark42]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

The most common location for a bilge pump discharge is on the same side of the boat as the helm. That is because the captain can look aft and see if the bilge is running or not. If its on the transom or other side from the helm, it can't be seen by the captain at the helm.

 

[nuboat2me]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

I would think the driver side rear for the outlet would be better. That way, if you THNIK you took on any water, you can see it pumped just by turning around.

On my Rinker, its near the outdrive, out of sight. I have the 1st Mate check when I hit the bilge pump switch.

Just my $.02...

YMMV

Best of luck!

 

[oops!]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

the yellow circle.....or read mark 42's answer again.

most factory installations are in that location

 

[chargerboy]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

Or.... You could try something new and direct it inside the boat at the passengers, in case somebody gets out of line

 

[geeco1]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

I would put it on the side where the yellow circle is. Not only does that allow the driver to see if the pump is working, but if you ever install a swim ladder, then you still have a choice of which side to install it on. I often turn the bilge pump on while swimmers are boarding and I wouldn't want it to spray in their faces.

 

[jspano]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

i have seen boats with two discharges, 1 for each pump (one manual the other on a float switch.) each on the side above the water line (i'm going to do that) if only 1 pump do it on the side with the controls for reasons stated above (more visiable)

 

[Mark42]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

i have seen boats with two discharges, 1 for each pump (one manual the other on a float switch.) each on the side above the water line (i'm going to do that) if onnotly 1 pump do it on the side with the controls for reasons stated above (more visiable)

jspano brings up a good point; if multiple bilge pumps are used, each should have its own dedicated discharge. Multiple bilge pumps should not be connected together with a "Y" going to a single outlet, even if check ball valves are used.

 

[jspano]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

jspano brings up a good point; if multiple bilge pumps are used, each should have its own dedicated discharge. Multiple bilge pumps should not be connected together with a "Y" going to a single outlet, even if check ball valves are used.

basicly why you don't want it discharge to the splashwell. what if that gets compromised, you would be pumping water back into the boat

 

[chargerboy]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

My boat pumps out the back, and I like it that way. I can run the bilge at the dock without washing people away.

 

[sprintst]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

Mine is basically in the yellow circle in your pic. Right out the side is the best place for it and you can see it from the helm.

 

[drewpster]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

I love this stuff. I vote for the discharge to be directed at the passengers as chargerboy suggested. gimme any lip, you get the juice! Keeps the crew in line.

seriously, it is best to be able to see the discharge running from the helm. It is also a good idea to have an automatic switch if it is viable. Dont want to wait until the boat feels "heavy" before noting the water running in to your deck shoes.

 

[geeco1]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

You could point it out the back but put a piece of angled pipe so it sprays upwards Like a drinking fountain.

 

[chargerboy]

Re: Where should I mount bilge outlet? See pics

You could point it out the back but put a piece of angled pipe so it sprays upwards Like a drinking fountain.

Haha, you'd be the first person with a water fountain on their boat, talk about luxury!