C-Forum

Where can I find a switch for bilge pump that won't corrode?

they all corrode if they wet and stay wet. the rubber toggle bootie works well,its the body of the switch that will seep. i encase the body with 3M 5200 sealent. mine will corrode too. but it may take a couple seasons to do so. http://youtu.be/4G2ZsXNjEHk" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

If they are ones that you can get apart I'll put a glob of dielectric grease (sometimes marketed as "bulb grease" in auto parts stores) inside any switches that are going to be exposed to water. Because of the hydrophobic (water hating) nature of the grease it helps slow the corrosion.

I've been buying ordinary toggle switches and coating them with ReRack which is used to recoat damaged dishwasher racks. I think that Liquid Electrical Tape would work even better. Don't forget to seal the end of the rubber boot. That's the point of a lot of leakage.

Some good info on this post. I've tried the "waterproof" push-pull switch from West Marine and found it to be only marginally better than the non-waterproof; not worth the extra $$. The di-electric grease sounds like a good idea.

i like the idea of some grease in there. being a cheap scottsman i have tried to rebuild switches with no luck my ham hand alway lose the tiny parts. but my next switch i am going to DRILL a tiny hole in the side of the switch body, inject some dilectric grease and glue it closed then do the usuall sealing job with the 3m. i bet it will last a couple years easy that way.

Good idea on the switch modifications.

Yes they are expensive, But I have NEVERHad one to fail yet and I have installed and used at least a dozen or so of these !
https://www.alliedelec.com/search/produ ... U=70176323" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

The Eaton switch that horizongfx linked to is an excellent switch.

I have just been using regular, off the shelf, light switches. The one I have been using the longest has been on about two years and so far, so good. If nothing else, they are cheap and easy to replace.

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/e ... ckkey=4681" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

This is what I use, and only because AS-East Coast Warehouse is in my back yard.

Good to see you back on cboats Matt.