Installing a bait tank

[GTMODawg]

I want to permanently install a bait tank on my deck boat and I have some questions. If I buy an angled live well pump where does the thru-hull inlet go? In the transom or along the side of the boat? DO I need a screen on the thru-hull? Does the pump have to be below the water line? I would like to have some raw water wash down capabilities also. Does anyone have any suggestions about what type of pump to buy and a good source?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Mike Lammert]

Re: Installing a bait tank

Well, Your inlet goes through the transon below the waterline. This is the only way it could suck in water. A screen is always a good layer of protection, as sucking in trash could ruin your pump. If you intend to use it as a washdown as well you should look into a good strong pump like a Jabsco or the like, and these should be used with a strainer....just my $.02

 

[Mike Lammert]

Re: Installing a bait tank

By the way.....when you drill your hole through the transom, be sure to really seal any wood that gets exposed in the core of the transom, as these are usually the starting points for rot.....

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Installing a bait tank

I'd recommend drilling the transom hole oversize and then Epoxying in a piece of 1" pvc this way you will never have to worry about water penetration in the transom.

 

[GTMODawg]

Re: Installing a bait tank

I understand that the inlet for the pump must be below the waterline but can the pump be located above the water line? What kind of lift would a Rule 800 GPH pump for instance have? I haven't measued it yet but I would guess that at a minimum the pump would have to lift water at least 36 inches. I am using a livewell pump now that is designed to go in a cooler but it has to be completely submerged to work at all.

 

[Mike Lammert]

Re: Installing a bait tank

You are looking for a self priming pump.....most Rule pumps are the style that either have to be submerged like a bilge pump, or have water supplied at the inlet (non-priming). I would look for a self priming pump with a capability of more lift than you really need as not to push it to its max every time you use it....look at the Jabsco brand pumps, some of them lift over 6 feet for sure.

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Installing a bait tank

Check out Azlo's thread. He did a great job on his pumps and they shoot water like a Harbor Pumper!!!!!

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=347709&page=27&highlight=azlo

 

[catfishr1]

Re: Installing a bait tank

Howdy: I am going to refurbish my 18' supersport, am going to install bait well live well too. Had a thought. I hate drilling holes in my boat I am going to research going thru drain hole?

 

[catfishr1]

Re: Installing a bait tank

Howdy: I am going to refurbish my 18' supersport, am going to install bait well live well too. Had a thought. I hate drilling holes in my boat I am going to research going thru drain hole?

 

[Mike Lammert]

Re: Installing a bait tank

Howdy: I am going to refurbish my 18' supersport, am going to install bait well live well too. Had a thought. I hate drilling holes in my boat I am going to research going thru drain hole?

Sounds good on paper....however I do believe that would become a royal PITA when it comes time to use the drain plug for its intended use...draining the boat. Just my $.02

 

[catfishr1]

Re: Installing a bait tank

The more I turn it over in my head the am s:redface:ure your right

 

[herefishy]

Re: Installing a bait tank

Don't forget - you'll probably want a through-hull for the drain of your live tank too.

~Fishy