Re: [Paddlewise] Waterproof switch....

From: "Davis, Stephen G FOR:EX" <Stephen.Davis_at_gems4.gov.bc.ca>


> I'm in the process of putting together the gear
> needed to install a pump in my boat and I'm having a hard time tracking down
> a waterproof switch (either toggle or push button). Does anybody have any
> leads?

I went to a local electronics surplus shop and found a "waterproof" switch
for $2.  It was only waterproof in the sense of having a flexible plastic
cover over the rocker; the rest of the switch was open.  I wired it up and,
using a 35mm photo film container as a mold, encased the entire body
of the switch in epoxy.  More work, but a lot cheaper than the switches 
I found at the marine supply shops.

> Also any opinion on Rule versus Attwood?

When looking for a pump, I searched online and found several references 
to comparisons of these and other pumps.  Alex's pointers are probably 
the main ones.  They did find that Attwood pumps were good, as was a 
single Whale model (this in the category of small pumps that we'd be 
interested in).

The thing I discovered from my research was that Attwood conservatively
rates their pumps.  They are consistent in underrating the capacity 
and power requirements compared to other manufacturers.  This was a
strong influence in my buying an Attwood - you actually know what
you're getting!

One interesting thing is that the Attwood 625 uses less power than
the Attwood 500!  The smallest pump isn't necessarily the lowest
power.  I did a test of the pump in the laundry sink where I put
on a length of hose twice as long as the kayak required.  I then
forced the pump to drive water to the same height as the kayak
would require.  While the rating of the pump is one amp under these
conditions, I measured 0.9A drawn under full power.  My VOM couldn't
measure peak draw on power up, though I would guess there's a short
spike in current above 1A.

One advantage of the Atwood 625 is that it can be powered with the 
smallest battery compared to other pumps.

Mike




***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed
here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire
responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author.
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************