BoatBuildingOnline.com

kazeej · Posted: Mon Jul 06, 2009 9:31 pm Post subject: I did it again!

Back when the Javelin was collecting water from unknown places, I installed a float switch on the bilge pump, so if water came in, and I didn't catch it in time, the switch would turn on the pump when the water got to about 4 inches. I finally stopped the water from coming in, and I forgot all about the automatic switch - until . . .

I was lauching the boat alone. I had eased the trailer down until the boat just started to float. I was on the front of the trailer about to push the boat off when I heard what sounded like an electric motor running. I started looking around, and then heard the stream of water shooting from the bilge pipe on the side of the boat.
I had forgotten the plug! If I hadn't put that switch in, I would have filled that boat up to the seats - AGAIN.

I'm gonna invent an automatic plug - like the wiffle valve on a duck.
The wiffle valve is what closes off the duck's uhh.. rear. It allows stuff to flow out, but stops water from coming in. I learned about this when I was working with a vet. He showed me how to check a duck's wiffle valve, too. You take the duck, and push him backwards in the water real fast. If he eyes get big, the wiffle valve is no good.
_________________
Bass Wishes from South Florida!
Jack

Dave JZ · Swabby Joined: 18 Dec 2005 Posts: 264 Location: Wymore, NE

lol... However I'm not sure what part of the story I'm laughing at Rolling Eyes

_________________
it's only what you make of it!!!

Calico · Posted: Tue Jul 07, 2009 8:34 pm Post subject:

Would you have a Duck Boat then?

You have to keep those self-bail plugs clean, a little stick or leaf caught in there will have your eyes bulging Mr. Green

_________________
Strange but not a Stranger

Wimperdink · Swabby Joined: 18 Dec 2005 Posts: 2328

Holy crap Im with Dave.... I'm cracking up but not sure which part
_________________
I make stuff up!

Dave JZ · Swabby Joined: 18 Dec 2005 Posts: 264 Location: Wymore, NE

Thats what you need to build dink... a Duck boat.. wouldn't have to worry about trailers and what would tow it...

Thats my biggest fear... and I'm sure one day I'll forget the plug myself. I remember to tell my wife on the way to remind me to put the plug in... can't say that she has said anything about the plug until after we are in the water..... Hmmmmm...
_________________
it's only what you make of it!!!