Question: The bilge pump under my engine rests 8 inches above the bottom of the hull, is this part of a ballast system?

(Posted by: on 2009-09-25 00:15:21)

Posted by: Karle on 2009-09-25, 00:20:00

Sounds more like emergency bailing system

Posted by: jtexas on 2009-09-25, 07:19:31

What boat is it, that would even have a ballast system? It sounds kinda like an emergency backup bilge pump. You sure there's not another pump at the bottom of the bilge, with a float switch?

Posted by: Capt. John on 2009-09-25, 15:25:26

You don't mention the size of your boat - but most (especially if you purchased it used) have at least two, it not three bilge pumps. At least one (normally the biggest one) should be located at the very lowest point of your bilge. Often, boaters will install another one at the rear to pick up water that is washed back (and often gets trapped) when the bow of your boat is high in the water, (like when you initially give it more fuel when taking off. You have no "ballast system " on your vessel. These are "self leveling " systems used to balance bigger vessels carrying various weights of cargo, and ships with lots of people - that might all of a sudden decide to run over to the port side to watch a sunset or another boat sinking... Capt. John