How high should the drain for the splashwell be out of the water?

[Slimer]

So I've had my boat out about a half dozen times already, and have noticed that the drains from the splashwell while the water is calm sometimes will allow water coming in. That can't be right. I figure it's a weight thing and if so, that would explain the little bit of water coming into the bilge from time to time.

It's a 94 stratos 284. Stock it was configured for 2 batteries, one for trolling and one for cranking. A previous owner upgraded the bow motor and needed another battery so now it has 3 batteries, 2 for the trolling motor and one for everything else. The 2 for the bow are Group 29 so I know thats added a lot of weight to the back.

I've moved my weight forward to the bow and it seems to lift the stern up much higher so I'm confident it's just a weight displacement problem.

Either way I'll test it out without one or both batteries soon to confirm. But figured I'd ask, how far should those 2 drains for the splashwell be out of the water when just sitting in calm waters?

Thanks,

Robert

[StratosBrad]

I wouldn't worry about it man.

[Slimer]

lol

Fully insured, so I'd make money if it sunk. But still, have almost been swamped 2 times now in rough waters.

[Jason Hale]

That's not uncommon. My 94 201 did that, along with other boats I've had. Not a big deal.

[Slimer]

Hmm, did your bilge fill up fairly quickly? I'm going to buy some extra plugs and cover up the livewells next time out just to test - and buy a new drain plug, see if I can eliminate what seems to be a steady leak there and narrow it down by process of elimination.

Thanks again guys.

Rob

[Bryanmc57]

Park it in your driveway and fill the bilge with water (within reason I wouldn't go much higher than over the lower motor bolts), then watch for where it comes out.

[siskiyoucrash]

<table width="90%" cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=center><tr><td>Quote, originally posted by Bryanmc57 &raquo;</td></tr><tr><td class="quote">Park it in your driveway and fill the bilge with water (within reason I wouldn't go much higher than over the lower motor bolts), then watch for where it comes out.</td></tr></table> This and you may have leaky Motor mount holes(hope not) and could also have a fitting leaking in the bilge.

[Slimer]

If it's the motor mount holes, should just need resealing yeah? Sure I can do that with the right tools. Or should I take it to a shop to do? (hypothetical)

[Hair Jig]

If the boat is fitted with an outboard within the recommended HP range, then you shouldn't be sitting too low. It's normal for bass boats to sit low, and I've noticed mine sitting low enough to take water in the well sometimes. As for water in the bilge, the "usual" culprit is a hose that feeds one of the pumps. Check the hoses to your livewell pumps.

[DIXIEDOG]

If it's taking on a lot of water check your rub rail....mine was leaking and it was fast.....just sitting I'd take in no water to speak of.....taking off and getting on plane would fill it quick.

[Slimer]

Interesting on the Rub Rail. It has the max rating of an outboard at 150. It actually weighs less than the assumption on the yellow coast guard suggested maximum capacity sticker.