Bilge Pump Question

[champ]

My bilge pump float switch was stuck in the on position. I gave it a little tap and it when to the off position.

Anything I can do to fix it? It only happened this one time so I don't know if it will stick all the time.

Thanks
Champ

[Capt. Debbie]

Is the separate float switch like the lever float switch Rule made?

If so I'd replace and they can get stuck in the off position too. If you need to keep it, the Rule float switch we used to have has removable cover caps over the horizontal pivot axle used. The caps come off.

Under the caps you will see retaining clips that hold the horizontal axle on the two beds. Don't that those out. Lubricate working the switch level up and down.

Lube choice is key. Too light and washes away. Too heavy and it doesn't work anymore. My choice would be 40 or even 90 weight oil.

Good luck.

Buy as I stated at the top. best replace it. This thing failing to turn on a pump, if kept in a slip could be a disaster.

I use a solid state switch. No moving parts or places to clog. And have 10 years of regular usage.

[Gerry Zagorski]

Seems like the Rule Mechanical switches don't last very long.. I've had to swap out more then a few over the years. Which solid state switch are you using Frank?

[Capt. Debbie]

Gerry,

I looked up today's equivalent. Mine is over 15 years old. Bought it in the 1990's. I guess that says a lot itself.


Made by Johnson. Pricey too- about $55. It's been hooked up to a hefty 2000gph Rule on a leaky riveted crab boat. I use 10-12 trips a year. And gets its work out frequently on a large pump too.

Here's the West Marine link:

https://www.westmarine.com/buy/johnson-pump--ultima-electronic-bilge-pump-switch--10204188?recordNum=3


Best I've ever heard of. Has marked with two little circles on the side. You place 2 fingers across it and it switches on.

VERY HAPPY WITH IT!

[Gerry Zagorski]

Thanks Frank

[Capt. Debbie]

You may never buy another unless you don't like the color? LOL

Thanks Frank

[champ]

It;s the rule one. I tapped it and it went down. Nothing blocking it. I got one on sale $30 so I'm gonna replace it.

Thanks