RULE 1500 bilge pump

[Leocat66]

We have a Rule 1500 automatic pump on board. Recently when it came on it would not turn off. It ran down four GC batteries twice.

Thinking the float was stuck or dirty I removed the bottom. The float was free to move up and down and fairly clean. When held in my hand it would start when I pushed the float up and stop when it was released to come down. It worked perfectly each and every time. I found the flap on the external check valve seemed weak, so I replaced the valve thinking water was flowing back to the pump not allowing it to stop.

The pump works fine until placed in the bilge, in two inches of water. It starts and pumps out all but 1/2" or so of water, but will not turn off. If I pick it up off the bottom, it still runs until I pull the fuse. When the fuse is replaced it does not come on even when placed in the bilge in the small amount of water.

Anyone had this problem?

[scottyt]

this is why i dont like flapper or float type switches. it only takes a little crap to stop the switch from working. try hosing it out with some pressure from a hose.

[SimonV]

It could be that water has got past the lower seal and may be shorting out causing it to run, these pumps need to be kept vertical to keep the motor dry.