[C320-list] Bilge Pump Question

[Robert E. Sloat]

Harbor Neighbor Doug-On my 2002 320 the OEM pump is a Jabsco diaphragm pump
and there is no backwash.  I don't believe there is a check valve in the
bilge line and assume the diaphragms operate to prevent back flow.  It is
noisy which acts as an audible warning in addition to the panel light
warning.  In 7 years of sailing I can't think of a single time it ever
operated other than when I deliberately operate it during winterizing or do
my weekly check of systems.  (Thanks to GFO packing on the propeller shaft
seal.)

If your pump is a diaphram type, maybe the diaphrams need to be replaced or
cleaned out.  I cleaned mine out a few years ago as a precaution and it took
about 15 minutes to disassemple the pump and I believe I did not have to
remove the pump from its mounting under the cabin seat on the port side.

Bob Sloat
Savannah Hull 894
Slip N-14 27


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Doug Stieber" <djstieber at gmail.com>
To: <C320-List at catalina320.com>
Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 1:07 PM
Subject: [C320-list] Bilge Pump Question


> After my bilge pump cycles, the water backwashes and refills the bilge
> from
> the intake hose that runs from the pump to the bilge.  Is there a check
> valve in the Jabsco pump itself, or is there a separate check valve in the
> line somewhere?
>
> Thanks for any help.
>
> Doug Stieber
> Second Chance #406