bilge pump switch

[DougPhillips]

I have a 2003 216 Air Nautique Signature Edition.

The bilge switch is a two position rocker. The up position turns the bilge pump on.

What I have not been able to find out is when the switch is in the lower off position does the pump still sense for water and turn on/off automatically.

We just bought a cottage and the boat will be in the water for extended periods, unattended. Am I protected or not?

Doug

[Brad_K]

RE: bilge pump switch

In my 1980 the bilge pump can be turned on by a switch on the dash but only when the ignition is on, the auto float sensor will turn the pump on when it gets to its level regardless of weather or not the ignition is on or off.

I to was unsure and simply tested it by having the ignition off and manually lifting the float sensor to see if the pump comes on. I don’t know what kind of sensor is on your boat but I am sure you can trick it into thinking the bilge is full.

[DougPhillips]

RE: bilge pump switch

My bilge and ballast tank pumps operate when the ignition is off. I found out by killing my battery one day.


I will have a look on the weekend. I think there are two pumps, one at the back and one in the middle.

[nms1991]

RE: bilge pump switch

That year uses a computerized bilge pump that when turned on it will run for a few seconds and shut off if no significant amount of water is in the bilge, then every 5 to 6 minutes it will cycle to check for water. If the pump fells resistance it will pump out the bilge. And all of correct craft open bow boats built since 1993 have two bilge pumps.

[DougPhillips]

RE: bilge pump switch

I am pretty sure that when I set the bilge swirch to on it runs continuously and I have to switch it to the lower position for it to stop.

I have to check again on the weekend.

[BozBoarder]

RE: bilge pump switch

watch your battery though, mine drains it after a week without use, unless you turn it off...

[DougPhillips]

RE: bilge pump switch

That what happened to me last year. I left it in the up position and it drained the battery. I assume if it is active only with the float sensors then battery life is OK except for very extended periods.

[OldFart]

RE: bilge pump switch

I think the answer is in your owner's manual, OR CHECK the '03 owners manual on this web site. I copied a portion of it below...
"Automatic Bilge Panel
Bilge Pump Only Mode - This feature is activated by a switch located on the side console. The switch has three positions, ON, OFF and BILGE. If the boat is going to sit for more than a few days with the bilge pumps on, it is important the switch is set in the BILGE position to minimize battery drain. This will activate the bilge pump and shut off power to the Serial Switching and Keyless Ignition System. It is important to remember the engine or other accessories can not be used unless the switch is in the ON position...."

[DougPhillips]

RE: bilge pump switch

That is what my manual says however the Signature boat has a different switch set up. My rocker is only two position which may be off and on with no bilge position.

[DougPhillips]

RE: bilge pump switch

So I was at a rental cottage for two weeks and the boat worked great. 30 hours logged! Fuel is CDN$1.15/liter at the marina.

My bilge switch has two positions off and on. In the on position it will run for a few seconds and shut off if no significant amount of water is in the bilge. Every 5 to 6 minutes it will cycle to check for water. If the pump feels resistance it will pump out the bilge.

[jburen91]

I have an sv211 and i am wondering if anyone can help me. I have found water in the bottom of the boat and i looked at my front bilge pump and it was the motor was not hooked up to the base correctly and i fixed that and now i am wondering if the rear bilge pump is off too, but i can't seem to find it anywhere. Does anyone know where it is?

[georges]

In my 211, the rear bilge pump is just in front of the engine. You may have to open the trap door to locate it. The trap door is great for stashing kids that want to ride tubes.