212X ballast pump double as wash down pump?

[upperdeck]

I'd like to add a wash down pump to my boat. My 212X already has a ballast pump. Does anyone have an opinion about just adding a Y connector and valves to use it as a wash down pump? I like the idea of the pump doing double duty since it's already installed, etc!

 

[KXCam22]

Why not. It is easy to add a couple of valves. Cam.

 

[upperdeck]

My concern was the pump specs. I think I'll give it a go and report back.

 

[waterboy]

Great idea and would like to see how it works out. For pump specs, if you are hosing down from an open ended hose, you should be fine. An 800 gph pump rates out to about 13 gpm less pump head losses which is great flow. Not sure what the ratings are on the ballast pumps. There is no pressure on these pumps (I believe) as they are "high volume, low pressure pumps so you most likely will not be able to use a nozzle of any type, I am guessing.

 

[KXCam22]

I have run my johnson ballast pumps over the side and while they flow a lot of water they are certainly not a pressure washer and don't shoot all that far. Cam.