Source of Leak

[CAM212SS]

Went boating today and noticed on 3 occasions the bilge pump turning on and spewing out water for about 8-10 seconds each time it turned on
The first time it happened, i had only traveled a short distance, sat in the water for about 45 minutes before the pump turned on. Second time maybe 10 minutes after that. The third time was probably an 1-1/2 to 2 hours.
My Plug was very tight. I looked under the boat when i got home this evening and noticed some silicone missing around the screws on the intake grate as well as around the intake grate itself
Could this be the source of a small leak, and if so what is the best silicone to fix with.
thanks for you guys' help

 

[Julian]

That won't be the source of your leak, but it might cause cavitation.

 

[ToddW850]

No, unfortunately that won't be your source. All that silicone does is keep you from having cavitation issues.

 

[ToddW850]

One way to find a leak is to put the plug in, raise the bow, and put several gallons of water into the bilge. Then look on the outside of the back of the boat for water leaking out.

 

[CAM212SS]

One way to find a leak is to put the plug in, raise the bow, and put several gallons of water into the bilge. Then look on the outside of the back of the boat for water leaking out.

I will try this... thanks
It has never happened before and it is odd of the timing differences between the water being pumped out.

 

[ToddW850]

Good luck and let us know what you find out.

 

[CAM212SS]

I got up this morning and plugged the drain, filled with water and noticed a small drip coming from the plug itself. It looks to be like it is not getting a good seal. Not sure if the was the true cause because of how small the drip was coming out though. I guess it is possible
Would it be best to just replace the plug with a stainless steel one or just get a new o-ring.

 

[Murf'n'surf]

If it's coming in/out around the threads, get a new o-ring. When the boat is in the water, the leak will be 10 times as much due to the pressure.

 

[CAM212SS]

If it's coming in/out around the threads, get a new o-ring. When the boat is in the water, the leak will be 10 times as much due to the pressure.

Thanks Murf. Will Do