I have a 22’ 2009 Scout bay boat. It appears that the bilge pump float switch is stuck in the “on” position because the pump never cycles off. Is this an uncommon occurrence? What is best way to get it unstuck given that it is fairly inaccessible (more than an arm’s length away when I reach into the stern hatch to try to get at it)? If I took a pressure washer wand and stuck it way down there and blasted away a few times, would that perhaps dislodge it? Driving me crazy so hope someone can help.
Start with a regular garden hose nozzle. Pressure washer might send an obstruction deeper. How would you replace it if you can’t reach it though? Can it be accessed from another port?
KeyWest 1720cc 90 Ymha
I had problem with sludge gumming up my switch. Actually replaced several before I figured it out. Thought it was due to oil or something. Take a five gallon bucket of hot water with a good shot of dawn detergent and pour into bilge (battery off of course and plug in). Let it sit an hour or drag it around with the car to slosh it loose. Worked several times. Finally got Charleston Marine to fix my leaking hydralic stearing (at the motor) and problem went away. Also I have pulled bits of line out of the switch before. Don’t use high pressure. Hoses might be damaged by the pressure.!
My Sea Hunt had a small hatch.I could not reach anything.I bought a larger hatch and installed it myself.Plenty of room now.
Stonoman
Good chance that float switch is gummed up or dirty. Clean it well with soap and scrub brush. Not sure of the model, but some of the models have the float switch built internal to the pump. If so, take the casing off and take a look inside. I bet you will find leaves, etc.
Kinda dumb on my part but I missed the inspection port that sits directly above the bilge pump on my first go around, the bilge pump very accessible now. Anyhow, I pressed on 2 tabs and the whole unit came free. I flipped it upside down and right side up and it still would not shut off. It is still running non-stop whether the float switch is engaged or dis-engaged. I wonder if that means that the pump is shot?
is the switch built in to the pump or an external switch
I assume you are asking about the float switch. The float switch is built into the unit itself. On the bottom of the pump there is a portal that has a screen (to catch any large debris) and connects to the bilge hose and right next to that portal is a cylinder that houses the float switch. Everything is self-contained in the pump.