Bilge Pump running but not pumping

[Sean]

I have a SX with a bilge pump that isn't really working.  When I turn on the power to the pump I hear it running but no water comes out the side.  I can reach in to the water by the pump and feel it running but again no water.  Then 1 out of 8 times it will work and water will flow.  Any ideas or anything I can check. 

Thanks

[epic_toy]

You could try cycling it on and off in succession to prime it... that's what I need to do with the pump on my ballast bag sometimes, and it's the same type. Maybe it gets an air lock in it on the times it isn't working?

They're fairly cheap and easy to replace ($42 f or 500gph):

http://www.starmarinedepot.com/Rule+Bilge+Pump+500+Automatic+Submersible.html

[cyclone]

Many were wired backwards from the factory, they run but no pumping of water. Mine was. Or, it could be bad. I replaced mine and reversed the wires, it's been fine ever since. It is a standard Rule pump with integrated switch, got mine at West Marine.

[skiboarder]

Mine was doing that the bilge hose was clogged changed the hose and it pumps great.I suggest that you tape the new hose on to the old and pull it threw the bilge area.

[cyclone]

Take the hose off at the pump end and blow some compressed air from the outside hull fittning. That will clear the hose.

[ScarabEpic22]

I had this problem until last year when I cleared the hose by disconnecting it at the hull fitting (E22) and pumped the water into a 5gal bucket.  Out came a ball about 4" long and the diameter of the pipe of CARPET SHAVINGS!!!!  I couldnt believe it, but my bilge worked great for the rest of the year.  Now, its dead and I bought a Rule pump to replace the Attwood crap that came with it.

[Sean]

Thanks for the info.  I will give that a try tonight and see what comes out.