[C320-list] bilge pump float switch

[Chris Burti]

No article but here are the relevant comment that I have made.

There is definitely no in-line fuse on #867 (nor will there be).

The OEM float switches are generally considered to be inferior to electronic
switches and prone to failure by those working with them regularly. The
consensus seems to be that it is best to replace them with an electronic
switch and add an old-style float switch a few inches higher up in normally
dry territory of the bilge on a bypass circuit as a fail safe.

I did replace mine with an electronic switch when it failed, but have yet to
add the bypass switch. I slid clear tubing up the wiring, made my
connections with Ancor heat shrink crimps and covered with heat shrink
tubing. I then slid the clear tubing over the connections and pumped the
ends full of silicone sealant. As the connections are in the bilge, an
environmental equivalent of a urinal...I don't think that is overkill.

I intend to add a second switch higher up connected to a second pump in the
future as I don't care to trust this important safety feature to one system.


This is what I installed:

http://tinyurl.com/3m57n4

I recommend a 1/4" spacer between it and the bottom of the bilge ,
because it will drain the bottom dryer than the pump pick up will draw
water and otherwise it won't shut off properly.
I could only find this problem raised with the  SeeWater switch. (switch
failure-cb)

I should have been more specific…I installed a Sensaswitch which enjoys a
very good reputation. I understand that these may be manufactured now as
the Johnson ULTIMA electronic bilge pump switch. These reportedly at one
time may have required additional sealing of the wires by the
installer/consumer. The old ones like mine were encapsulated, the newer one
were not and I do not know if the issue has been addressed currently by the
manufacturer.

Initially, I had a problem with the pump not cutting off. Turns out the
switch is very precise. I installed the switch flush with the bottom of the
bilge and as the pump pickup is incapable of getting the last 1/4 inch or
so of water, I had to install a spacer.

Zero issues since then.

-- 
Chris Burti
Farmville, NC