Install Auto Bilge Pump

[Paul Blumenfeld]

My boat, (1987 model), only has a manual bilge pump. Can I install an auto pump and "T" into the existing outflow line?

Any suggestions on what pump to get?

Thanks

Paul

[Eliosso]

ABYC H-22.8.9: If the discharge of several pumps are manifolded to discharge through a single thru hull fitting, the system shall be designed so that the operation of one pump will not back feed another pump and the simultaneous operation of each pump will not diminish the pumping capacity of the system. A check valve shall not be used in the discharge manifold system.

[Paul Blumenfeld]

I got a Rule 2000gph pump installed but now I'm wondering if I need a hump in the line.  The new auto electric bilge pump hose runs next to the manual bilge pump hose and straight out a new thru-hull in the stern.  Normally the thru-hull would be above waterline but it seems like following seas, rain (don't get much), or washing the boat would get water into the bilge.  Should the hose path have a hump a few inches or foot high in the back of the aft cockpit locker?

Paul

[Ted Pounds]

Paul,

The hose should have a hump high above the water line.  The hump does not affect the head that the pump sees because that is determined by the height of the exit.  Once the water gets over the hump it is siphoned down to the exit so the net head pressure is only the net rise from the pump to the to the exit.  The hump will keep water from washing in when following seas submerge the exit.  That could be a big problem if your pump fails, because the following seas could swamp your boat.

Ted