Bilge pump switch

[Seagem]

On my SO42i I have an automatic bilge pump mounted behind the starboard saloon seating with a hose to the bottom of the sump. It activates by the float operated switch mounted in the bottom of the sump. At the top of the sump is a Rule pump which is switched on manually. Both pumps are controlled by a rocker switch on the instrument panel. With the switch in the left hand position the automatic pump/float switch is activated and if the float is raised the pump activates. The middle switch position is off. With the switch in the right hand position the Rule pump operates but the automatic pump/float is off.

I would have thought that if it is necessary to switch on the Rule pump manually then it would also be necessary for the automatic pump to be working also (Because the water would be deeper than the sump and filling the bilges)

Has anyone come across this problem before? Are my pumps wired incorrectly and if so what do I need to do to rectify the problem?

It has been suggested by a friend that I install a float switch for the Rule pump at the top of the sump, wire it to the auto side of the switch on the instrument panel and leave it switched so that it will operate in the same way as the automatic pump.

Any suggestions?

[Tafika II]

We have SO42DS with the same configuration. I would have thought the switch being on the left side would activate both pumps should the lower pump not be able to evacuate the water fast enough and the water level reaches the Rule pump auto switch. I think the only way to check this out is to disconnect the lower float, leave the switch to the left and fill that bilge with fresh water to the Rule level pump to see if goes on...or not. If you try this, let us know or I may try it next boat visit.

[Seagem]

Thanks Tafika, I agree with your thoughts but it was by filling the bilge with water that I discovered that the rule pump is not automatic. Mine is the small square type pump but I cannot remember its flow rate, I think it is 1000gph. Checking on the Rule web site, it appears that it requires a float switch wired into the switch on the instrument panel to make it automatic. I will have another look at it the next time I am at the boat and check on type.
If it is an automatic pump it should switch itself on every two and half minutes to check for any water pressure. Maybe my pump is faulty if that is the case.
Rather than filling the bilge with water, its easier to take the pump out of its strainer and put it in a small bowl or bucket of water to test it.