500 GPH FISH Box Pump not working too well

[Petrus]

My 92 has a good sized in-floor fishbox with a drain that is connected to a factory installed RULE 500 gph livewell pump located in the bilge area. IN theory, the pump is supposed to clear out any standing water in the box. The problem is that the through hull outlet is about 10 feet away near the stern on the stbard side. The water has to travel that distasnce then up about 24". Unless the box is about half full, the pump doesnt do anything. Have checked the hose and pump to make sure both were OK, then re-routed the hose to make the distance as short as possible. Any issues with changing to a Rule 1100 gph live well pump? I figured bigger is better over a longer distance. Have seen some threads about draw being an issue- what is that all about and what should I watch for?


MJ- Why do I think you know the answer to this? Read somewhere that you are the BILGE pump KING!

Thanks.

[jasoncooperpcola]

Actually, if i remember correctly, MJ not having a bilge pump almost cost him his boat. We had the same problem with our deadwell. We ended up installing a washdown pump between the deadwell and the thru hull to empty it but it was slow! We stopped using ours because as it filled it with water so did the bottom of our boat. It separated from the deck and water overflowed into the bilge. Depending on how you plan to use it, your best bet may be an above deck livewell. We fish alot of tournaments so we couldn't use our deadwell, it was just a pain.

[Petrus]

Thanks - figured mine couldn't be the only one having this problem- am going to give the 1100 unit a try will let you know how it works.

[Franco]

Check out this site, you can find what you need to make it functional.

http://www.flow-rite.com/marine/index.html?open_menu=1&sub_menu=1

[macojoe]

Thats right, I had no pump in my boat for 9 years!! They always break! But after your boat fills to the gunnel's from a unexpected 10 foot wave you have 2nd thoughts fast!!

The new boat has huge scupers (V20 was not self bailer) and two pumps, one in bilge I think 1100 gph? and has a 500 gph in the mid section, both work to!!

[Petrus]

Good to know--- I figured the fish box could double as an emergency bilge if the cockpit ever gets flooded. The 92s do have 2 scuppers though not very big.

Thanks.

[Petrus]

Good stuff- thanks Franco.