bilge blowing fuses

[fivebucks]

A new problem just started with my boat. My bilge pump just started blowing fuses. Sometimes not right away but after a couple of minutes after big overnight rain and sometimes almost right away. I had to use a 20A fuse just to get the water out of the boat (normally a 5A). I followed the wires last night and did not see any breaks that would cause a short. Do you think the bilge is starting to go bad? It's about 10 years old. What is the right tester to use to double check the wires? I've got your basic trailer light tester but do not have a volt meter. Also, would this test work as I am getting current through the wiring but obviously there is a short somewhere. I appreciate the help.

[Valv]

I would suggest replacing bilge pump. After that many years motor might be worn out and drwaing too much juice.
Easier and faster than troubleshoot it, and also safer, you don't want wires to get hot.

[fivebucks]

Thanks Valv,
I was kind of leaning that way.

[Walleye_GFA]

Mine was doing same thing, picked up new one today as matter of fact...

[Walleye_GFA]

Also, this was new to me...

THey sell units that have caps on the top that house the impeller... so when it goes out all you buy is the replacement impeller, turn the old one 90 degrees take out replace and lock back down...

I go through them quite frequently (sucking up sand and debris on bank or rivers)... and this should save me some time and money...

Wally

[chunkytrout]

As bearings start to go on electric motors, the windings draw much more power. Hence, blowing fuses. Time for a new pump but if you want to experiment....Buy a half way decent multi-meter and check resistance across the leads. That'll tell you if you have a short (which I doubt) or if the windings on the motor are bad (possible).

chunky

[fivebucks]

Bought a new automatic bilge tonight. I'll install it and test it out this weekend. Thanks for all your responses.

[rmh2o]

I would have to agree after 10 years of use it probably is time to replace but also check to see if it has sucked up anything like line etc.