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Hi all. I just picked up a 2009 130 Super Sport and want to install a bilge pump. Has anyone done this to their 13' Super Sport and if so, what make/model do you recommend?

Thanks!

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Several reasons to have and several to not have a bilge pump in a 13 Whaler. If you trailer your boat there is really no need for a pump. If you get water in the boat just lean back, pull the drain plug and get up on a plane and the water will drain out. If you store your boat in the water you don't really need a bilge pump. Just leave the plug out and it will fill with an inch or two of water and no more. Any more water added in whatever manner will just drain out and that one or two inch level will be constant. When you get to the boat put it on a plane and the water will drain then put in the plug. Some people don't want wet feet and opt for a bilge pump. Rule makes a 500 GPH pump that has a built in sensor which turns it on if it detects water. I've had one of those in my Montauk 17 for three years and I'm happy with it.

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Thanks for sharing your thoughts. The boat will be kept in salt water, I suppose I never thought of keeping the plug out because my other Whalers were all self bailing.

I think I need (like) a dry deck...I'd want the ability to rinse the boat after each use, then stand in the stern as I flush the engine, and then a final quick rinse. Just a creature of habit I guess....

Just curious, wouldn't the constant dampness of the water on the deck potentially cause blistering?

Thanks again.

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im not sure what chemical process causes osmotic blisters. Gelcoat is not waterproof though water migrating through is probably on the molecular level but something chemical happens between the gelcoat and fiberglass layup which causes the blisters. I have a 1984 Montauk 17 which has spent years in a slip in both fresh and salt water and there are no blisters. I wouldn't worry about it. If you can't help but worry, have an epoxy barrier coat applied to the bottom.