Skipper's Locker

Attwood Sahara MK2 Automatic Bilge Pump, 800 GPH, 12V

Brand:
Attwood
Part no:
5508-7

Where to buy

Specifications

Rated flow
800 gal/h
Voltage
12V

The Attwood Sahara MK2 is an automatic 12V DC bilge pump in the 800 GPH size. It turns on as water rises and shuts off once the bilge is clear. It takes 3/4 inch and 1 inch hose and is specified with a 5 A fuse. It uses an X-Air impeller to push trapped air out of the pump and pipework, and a SteadySwitch to cut down on cycling. External mounting feet, an integrated outlet and a universal mounting pattern are meant to make installing and replacing it simple.

Our take

The X-Air impeller is the useful part here: it pushes trapped air out of the pump and lines, which addresses an air-lock leaving a pump running without moving water. The 5 A fuse also gives a clear figure for sizing the circuit on a 12V boat.

From our buying guide

Rule and Johnson both say their bilge pumps are not intended for damage control. Flow falls as the discharge head rises, and the length of the hose, its bends and any check valve reduce it further.

Check before you buy:

  • The maker's own table shows the flow at head, since how much a pump loses depends on the model.
  • An automatic pump also has a manual switch, which ABYC's voluntary 2005 standard calls for.
  • You'll fuse it to the maker's figure.

Other versions

Sources