Rule Automatic Bilge Pump Switch #43

[endoftheroad]

This switch is very popular.
I just picked one up at West Marine.
It's model #43 (3-way lighted switch).

My concern is that when the switch is in the "automatic" mode that the other end of the rocker switch sticks out and could easily be bumped into the "off" position by mistake.
It doesn't seem like a good design.
Any opinions?

I haven't installed it yet as I may take back to store.

A rocker switch must be better than a protruding toggle style switch that could easily be broken but I am thinking that Rule may have fell short in development.
I am puzzled though as it is a popular model.

Sorry I am not near a camera for a picture.

[AnchorageGuy]

The rocker switch is much preferred to the toggle and any switch you install can be accidentally hit and turned off. Just be sure and install it in a location that is not easily bumped. I prefer the Blue Seas 8263. Chuck

[wingontherock]

I have two on the panel... one is toggle and the other a rocker... I see your point but have not had a problem with either one being inadvertantly switched...

... but since it seems to be a peace of mind issue... take it back!!


My sleep is valueable!!!

[GordMay]

These (Rule & Blue Seas) are just a Carling Technologies "Contura" Switch, with a custom plate.
What other configuration would you prefer?

[Minggat]

When I did my re-wire I completely relocated the electrical panel to overcome the same issue. So my response is, choose the least vulnerable location or use a switch gaurd if you'r concerned. All my switches are now high, like shoulder level & up. More visable and less vulnerable.

I have 2 bigle pump switches (probably the same ones like you're talkng about) mounted in the highest corner of my panel. The switch for the BIG pump has a buzzer on it to let me know the water has gotten that high. I may even have used a buzzer on the smaller lower pump as well. Can't remember. But I do test them with the float switch from time to time.

Sorry, no pics. Too far from my boat right now.

[Prerequisite]

I have both the rocker and the toggle switch on board. The only one I've ever found in the wrong position was the toggle. That is probably more of a location issue, but I haven't had any issues with the rocker. I agree with the person who mentioned the value of sleep though... Anything on my boat that helps me sleep worse is quickly exchanged, fixed, or deep-sixed.

[SV Demeter]

Use a toggle switch guard

Toggle Guard - Blue Sea Systems

I use these for things I dont want accidentally turned off like the fridge. I Dont really like the Rule switches myself and prefer to make my own set up.

[endoftheroad]

Thanks for the imput, I appreciate my fellow cruisers.

[endoftheroad]

Isn't anyone concerned about consuming battery life with the red lights on these switches?

I am at anchor and have very limited power.

If the boat sat vacant for about 2 months wouldn't the light drain the battery?

[Prerequisite]

The light should only be on when the pump is actually running- if it is on all the time there is a wiring problem within the switch itself.

[rocksculpter]

After the failure of bilge pumps and switches a few times I opted to install a Groco switch (AS-100) that works on air pressure like the level switch in your washing machine. I also installed a Jabsco diaphram pump. Both are not in the bilge where the nasty environment or possible loose item can foul them. The pump has a check valve on the output so water in the hose doesn't drain back into the bilge. The typical bilge pump can't handle the pressure required to operate an inline valve.

So far I'm pleased with the performance, leave less water, and feel confident that the electrics are better off out of direct contact with the bilge water.

Barry

[goboatingnow]

The contura switch is avaiable thru Carling switch distribution network in a huge variety of configurations. I have the three way version with " down being auto" there are also switch cheek guards that prevent unintended operation

Dave

[endoftheroad]

When I read installation instructions for Bilge Pumps they say to install an inline fuse as close to the battery as possible.

So why are there so many switches with built in fuses?

Are you guys satisfied with using only 1 fuse at the switch?

[joker4142]

Have had my vessel all of 6 days now. It did not have an automatic bilge switch installed but was on the boat so I asked the seller to install the switch. (He did not believe in them but agreed to install the switch) Problem is it trips the breaker before it come on so I have to reset the breaker a few times to make it work which completely defeats the purpose of the switch. What should I be looking for to make the issue go away and work correctly?
joker