Replacing A Livewell Pump: A Step-By-Step Boat Guide

A livewell pump is an essential component of a boat, ensuring the well-being of the catch by keeping it alive. However, these pumps can malfunction or burn out, requiring replacement. This process involves accessing the pump, which is usually located in the rear of the bilge, and dealing with challenges posed by the transom block and tight spaces. Boat owners often face a dilemma between repairing and replacing the pump, with factors like cost and convenience influencing their decision. While some opt for a complete replacement, others choose to replace specific parts, such as the cartridge or motor, which can be more affordable and less time-consuming. Online forums and videos provide valuable guidance and troubleshooting tips for boat enthusiasts facing livewell pump issues, making maintenance and repairs more accessible.

Unscrewing the strainer screen

Firstly, locate the strainer screen on the outside of your boat. This screen will need to be unscrewed to access the water intake pipe and the pump itself. Using the appropriate tools, carefully unscrew the strainer screen. It's important to be gentle during this process to avoid damaging any components. Once the strainer screen is removed, set it aside in a safe place, as you'll need it again later.

After removing the strainer screen, you will expose the water intake pipe. This pipe is typically made of plastic and is threaded, connecting directly to the base of the livewell pump. Inspect this area for any debris or blockages that may be causing issues with your pump's performance. If you notice any obstructions, carefully clear them away.

Now, look for a plastic "nut" on the outside of the hull, near the water intake pipe. This nut is an essential component in securing the pump assembly. To remove the pump, carefully unscrew this plastic nut. It's important to be cautious during this step to avoid stripping the threads or causing any damage to the hull. Once the nut is removed, you should be able to carefully pull the pump assembly into the boat.

With the pump assembly accessible, you can now begin the process of replacing the livewell pump. Before removing the old pump, disconnect any attached hoses or wires to ensure a safe and proper detachment. Pay close attention to how the hoses are routed and clamped, as you'll need to replicate this when installing the new pump. Take note of the orientation of the pump and its outlet to ensure proper installation of the new one.

Finally, install the new livewell pump by reversing the removal process. Secure the pump in place with the plastic nut, being careful not to overtighten it. Reattach any hoses and wires, ensuring that all connections are secure and properly sealed. Once everything is in place, screw the strainer screen back on, and you're done!

Remember to take your time during this process and double-check your work to ensure a safe and proper installation. If you have any doubts or concerns, don't hesitate to consult a professional or seek advice from experienced boaters or marine mechanics.

Checking for power

Before attempting to replace a livewell pump in your boat, it is important to check for power. This step requires extreme caution to ensure your safety, as you will be dealing with electrical wires.

Firstly, you should ensure that you are a qualified electrician or have a good knowledge of electrical grounding. If not, it is best to seek advice from a professional.

If you are confident in your ability to check for power, you can begin by purchasing a voltage tester or a multimeter. A voltage tester is a more affordable and user-friendly option, whereas a multimeter provides more precise measurements and is better suited for electricians.

When using a voltage tester, ensure that you are wearing insulated gloves to protect yourself from electric shock. Check that the power is switched off, and then test the voltage tester on a live outlet to ensure it is functioning properly. You can do this by plugging the tester into an outlet that is powering a device, such as a lamp or a microwave. The tester should flash, beep, or vibrate to indicate that the outlet is live.

Once you have confirmed that the voltage tester is working, you can proceed to test the livewell pump. Insert the probes of the voltage tester into the slots of the outlet connected to the pump. If the outlet is live, the tester will indicate this through flashing, beeping, or vibrating.

Alternatively, if you are using a multimeter, set the meter to the "Volts AC" setting, typically represented as a capital "V" followed by a "~". Choose a setting that is higher than the expected voltage. For example, if you are in the US, a lighting circuit is typically 120 volts, so you would choose the "200" setting.

Next, refer to the documentation for your multimeter to determine where each probe should be plugged in. Usually, the black probe is placed in "COM", while the red probe is placed in "VΩmA", "VΩ", or "V".

Now, carefully touch one probe to a known electrical ground and the other to the "hot" conductor. Then, with the one probe still touching the ground, touch the other probe to the "neutral" conductor. Finally, touch one probe to the "hot" conductor and the other to the "neutral".

When measuring between the ground or "neutral" and "hot", you should measure line voltage (approximately 120 volts). When measuring between the ground and "neutral", the reading should be 0 volts.

By following these steps and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can effectively check for power before replacing a livewell pump in your boat.

Locating the pump

Firstly, it is important to understand the type of pump your boat has. Centrifugal pumps are the most common type found in new saltwater fishing boats, but older boats may have displacement or diaphragm pumps. Centrifugal pumps are not self-priming, so they must be mounted below the waterline for proper functioning. Displacement pumps, on the other hand, can be mounted higher in the bilge. Knowing the type of pump will help you locate it more easily.

Next, you should look for the pump in the bilge of your boat. The bilge is the lowest part of the boat, usually located at the bottom or near the keel. This is a common location for livewell pumps, especially centrifugal pumps, as they need to be below the waterline. Check the area around the keel and look for any signs of the pump, such as hoses, wires, or the pump itself.

If you have difficulty locating the pump in the bilge, try looking for access panels or hatches. Some boats have hidden compartments or access points that lead to the pump. These panels may be located in the floor, under seats, or in storage areas. Check for any latches, handles, or hinges that indicate the presence of an access panel.

Another way to locate the pump is by following the hoses or pipes connected to the livewell. Start by finding the livewell in your boat, which is usually located near the bait tank or fishing area. Trace the hoses or pipes that are connected to it, as they should lead you directly to the pump. Follow the hoses back to their source, being careful not to disconnect or damage any connections.

Lastly, if you are still unable to locate the pump, refer to your boat's manual or schematics. Every boat is different, and sometimes pumps can be installed in unique locations. The manual or schematics should provide a detailed diagram of the boat's systems, including the livewell pump's location. This information can help you pinpoint the exact position of the pump.

Remember to exercise caution when working on your boat and ensure that you have the necessary tools and knowledge before attempting any repairs or replacements. If you are unsure about the location of the pump or the procedure for replacing it, it is always best to consult a marine professional or a boat mechanic.

Removing the pump

Firstly, locate the pump. In most boats, the livewell pump is located in the rear of the bilge, next to the bilge pump. The pump is usually mounted horizontally, with the water intake pipe connected directly to its base. Before beginning the removal process, ensure you have the necessary tools and safety equipment, such as gloves and eye protection.

Next, you will need to disconnect the pump from its power source. Turn off the switch to the pump on your boat's dashboard to ensure no electricity is flowing to the pump during the removal process. Once the power is off, carefully detach any wires or leads connected to the pump.

Now, we can begin the physical removal of the pump. Look for any screws or fasteners that hold the pump in place. In some cases, there may be four screws securing the pump's base to its housing. Carefully unscrew these, making sure to keep track of the screws for reassembly.

If your pump has a strainer screen on the outside of the boat, you may need to unscrew it to access the pump fully. This will expose the water intake pipe, which may be threaded through the transom (the rear wall of the boat). Carefully unscrew any nuts or fittings holding the intake pipe in place, being mindful that this pipe also serves as a plug to prevent water from entering the boat through the hole in the transom.

With the intake pipe disconnected, you should now be able to access the pump from the inside of the boat. Gently pull the pump, along with the attached hose, into the boat. Be cautious not to damage any surrounding components or connections during this process.

Finally, if you haven't already, disconnect the hose or tubing attached to the pump. This will free the pump from the boat, and you can now lift it out. Be sure to handle the pump with care, as some pumps may contain residual water, and you don't want to spill this inside the boat.

Now that the pump has been successfully removed, you can inspect it for any signs of damage or blockage. This is also a good opportunity to clean the pump and its components before deciding whether to repair or replace it. Remember to follow appropriate disposal procedures for any boat maintenance waste.

Reinstalling a new pump

Firstly, make sure you have the correct replacement pump for your boat. Pumps vary by manufacturer and model, so it's essential to get an exact match. You can find the correct pump by searching for your boat's make and model online or consulting a marine specialist.

Next, carefully position the new pump in the same location as the old one, ensuring that all hoses and connections are properly aligned. Pay close attention to the orientation of the pump, as it may need to be installed in a specific direction. Secure the pump in place using the appropriate screws or fittings, taking care not to overtighten them.

Once the pump is securely in place, reconnect any wires or hoses that were previously attached to the old pump. Ensure that all connections are secure and watertight to prevent leaks. If necessary, apply a sealant to the connections to ensure a watertight seal.

Finally, test the new pump to ensure it is functioning correctly. Turn on the pump and check for any leaks or unusual noises. If everything appears to be in order, your new livewell pump is now fully installed and ready for use!

Remember to consult a professional or a detailed guide specific to your boat model if you encounter any issues or have any concerns during the reinstallation process.

Frequently asked questions