how to track down a leak and bildge pump problem

[rob_and_trish]

Ok - for the past few weeks now when ever we are out on the boat the pump will kick on after about an hour or so then about every 15-20 mins after that.
Today got out of the lake and the pump just kept going. Figured there was still a bit of water - got home - got the boat in the driveway w/ a pretty good angle and unpluged the little screw plug and drained the rest of the water out. Pump still wont turn off. I ended up taking off the "bilge auto on" connector on the batter so it doest burn out. Still work w/ the switch. So now I need to figure that out - im hopeing just something is stuck in the pump keeping it running.

But to the main issue - how do I track down the leak? What are common places to look?

Any help would be great.

Thanks
-Rob

[ghollow]

sounds like the float switch that turns the pump on automatically is stuck. If you think you have a leak, try filling the bilge with water while it is on the trailer and see where the water drips out. If your boat is like mine, the thru-hull fitting on the drive shaft constantly drips in order to keep the bearing cool.

[rob_and_trish]

Fun fun fun getting to that thing!
Took it apart - a small peice of wood somehow found its way to lodge itself on the side of the float. Took it out - put it back together and all is good again.

Heading out the lake in a bit - lets hope is gonna be a great day!

-r