76 cuddy bilge

[Gallagher]

Originally Posted by tsubaki

I'm horrible at explaining stuff.
The current hole that drains the inner bottom to the bilge will need to be enlarged but big enough to act as a drain hole also with the hose and wires running through it. Or you could simply drill a large enough hole above it to accommodate the hose and wire for the pump.
I don't suggest through the transom, either side just below the rub rail would be easier.
See this thread, note the bilge hose location.
http://www.wellcraftv20.com/communit...=battery+bilge

So if I understand correctly ...

1. cut the access hatch hole midway to the transom from the rear box, the same width as the box and maybe 12-16 inches long;

2. glue a platform such as an old cutting board to the hull with a quality bilge mounted to it;

3. run the electrical and the pump hose directly back to beneath the battery storage area, next to the transom;

4. come up into the battery compartment storage area with wires and hose;

5. wire the bilge and run the hose out to one side under the rub rail.

Is that it. Sounds like a great solution.

I hope I have it but one additional question is how to create a hatch cover for that hole? Do they sell them at West? Do I create my own? Obviously would want a flush mount ... I'm sure there's a thread on it somewhere here!

[tsubaki]

There are several choices.
A round one of several different sizes that pops out or screws out or a hinged one usually rectangle with a couple of sizes to choose from.

[tsubaki]

On all of my boats I just cut an aluminum plate for the pump to bolt to. No need to fasten to the hull.

[Gallagher]

Great, I think that rectangular cover would be perfect. And a hole saw cut between the batteries for the hose and wiring? Is it a challenge to feed the hose and wiring down to the transom area and bring it up? Seems like close quarters.

[Blue_Runner]

If it isn't an I/O and you've checked all thru hull fittings, next check for old screw holes and or any damage from intentional beaching, etc. Marinetex is a good product for repairing those types of things.

[tsubaki]

Yes you did say you had water coming in unexplained.
Do you have (or did have) a head (toilet)?
Mine came with one and was later capped off but the thru hulls cracked and was likely leaking so I removed them and sealed the holes.
http://www.wellcraftv20.com/communit...demodification

[Gallagher]

Yes, it has that little portable toilet in the step through but no through hull fittings below waterline except for the transom, such as trim tabs (which are a HUGE help with passengers), depth finder, engine bolts, etc.

I haven't begun to track down the leak(s) yet. I'm paying a guy to convert my VRO to premix. I dropped it with him before I found this site or I would've done it myself. I'm thinking it's likely one of the through hulls on the transom as the rest of the hull is solid and without an signs of damage.