Has your Livewell pump worn out and you worried how you’re going to replace it? Livewell pump, just like a water heater in your room, you rarely think about it unless it stops working. That’s when the question on how to fix it come into the picture. Worry no more since this article will answer all your queries on how to install a livewell pump.
When the bait pump goes bad then replacing it with the same model is the way to go especially if the old pump worked pretty well.
However, if you were not impressed with its performance, then it time to re-evaluate your choice. Well, replacing and installing a new pump is quite a simple task when the procedure is followed carefully.
You will need the following for this simple task:
- Screwdriver
- Wire strippers
- Liquid electric tape
- Silicone and marine sealant
- A new livewell pump
So, Lets go on and fix it.
Step 1. Locate the Spot to Drill a Hole
Locating an appropriate spot where you drill a hole is very vital before installing the live well pump. To ensure that you don’t go wrong, make sure the spot location is below the waterline when the boat is not moving.
Is there enough space for the pump inside the boat? You should look both outsides and inside the boat to ensure there is enough space for the pump fittings at the installation location.
Step 2. Drill the Hole
When you have identified the right spot. It is now time to drill a perfect hole on the boat. Drill a 1″ diameter hole.
Step 3. Fix the Rubber Gasket
Have the white rubber gasket placed on the threaded fitting. Next, slide the threaded fitting through the hole. At this point, the pump should be inside the boat while the rubber gasket between the boat and the pump.
Step 4. Apply Pipe Tape, Screw Nut and Tighten
To the threads, apply the pipe tape. Next, screw nut on, and hand tightens. While the pump output nozzle is facing up, tighten the screw nut on the fitting.
Take care, not to over tighten. To seal the hole that was drilled, use a marine grade silicone sealant and seal around the nut.
Step 5. Remove Excess Fitting
A saw will be highly effective in removing the excess length of the threaded fitting.
Step 6. Get Strainer Screen Out of the Boat
Ensure the strainer screen is outside the boat. You can push the screen into the end of the fitting outside the boat.
Step 7. Connect the Wires to the Pump
It is recommended to use heavier marine wire or gauge 16. Making the correct wire connection is very crucial in this last process.
Having the wire connected wrongly may lead to pump damage and other electrical faults related problems. Next, have the brown wire connected to the right switch.
Step 8. Connect the Switch to Fuse
When connecting the fuse, ensure you use the right and proper size fuse as well as the fuse holder. You can see your pump head to for the recommended fuse rating.
Step 9. Connect the Fuse to the Battery
This is the final step of your installation. Connect the fuse to the positive (+) side of the battery. Use the black wire and connect it to the negative (-) side of the battery.
You are now set to go.
Some Useful Tips
- When selecting the livewell pump to use, go for the pump that will be able to deliver enough water to replace the livewell water in approximately 6-10 minutes.
- The bigger pump does not mean it is better. However, having too much pump capacity might lead to the airlock and consequently damage delicate bait.
- Always mount the pump as low as possible and close to the hull.
Conclusion
Installing a live well pump is not as confusing as many thinks. With these simple steps on how to install a livewell pump, you now don’t need a marine mechanic to fix the pump for you. You can be your mechanic.
We can guarantee you surety that you will never go wrong with a guide. Keep tuned for other amazing and informative guides. We never disappoint!
