I hate to admit it but the bilge pump system in my E38 is just about worthless. A single Rule 500 run through plenty of hose all the way back to the transom. It works but its not going to keep up with any real problem. As most of you will know the TAFG grid setup in these boats limits the size and placement of pumps and particularly hose and hose runs. The next project is to replace the centrifugal pump with a diaphragm type mounted inline in the engine room. Even one good diaphragm pump is still not enough so I had an idea..... What about simply removing the manual pump entirely and using that large discharge hose run for a truly monster backup centrifugal? I would plan on keeping the manual setup mounted on a board, etc. for a backup backup.
I have read enough opinions (surveyors) on the futility of the manual pump. Claims that these pumps do not move enough water, are physically demanding to use, dedicate a crewmember to pumping and not helping to deal with the problem, etc. So what are the thoughts on this here?
Lastly I do have an emergency setup that allows the engine raw water intake to draw from a deployable hose/strum box that can be dropped in the bilge.
Thanks, RT
I have read enough opinions (surveyors) on the futility of the manual pump. Claims that these pumps do not move enough water, are physically demanding to use, dedicate a crewmember to pumping and not helping to deal with the problem, etc. So what are the thoughts on this here?
Lastly I do have an emergency setup that allows the engine raw water intake to draw from a deployable hose/strum box that can be dropped in the bilge.
Thanks, RT