Fish Under Sail · video

What this video covers

A marine water pump that turns on intermittently or not at all usually has a failed microswitch, not a failed pump.Watch Kyle on the Nauticat 43 diagnoses the symptom — the pump kicking on sometimes and sometimes not at all — and replaces the microswitch rather than the entire unit.1:39 The part costs roughly $3 on Amazon; Kyle orders a spare as well.1:23 The repair requires opening the pump housing, sliding out the microswitch assembly, desoldering the two wires from the old switch, soldering the new switch in place, reseating the spring and gasket, and reassembling the housing.2:09 Kyle notes the soldering is the hardest step and flags that a low-quality soldering iron makes it harder.2:35 After reinstallation, the pump fires immediately and holds pressure.7:11 The fix avoids a replacement pump costing several hundred dollars.6:24 When a pump runs intermittently, the internal microswitch contactor is the first component to inspect and replace.1:56

Boats in this video

More from Fish Under Sail

*Channel Update* - Big Things Coming, but First Going QuietSep 20268 Months of Hell — Splashing Sand Dollar at LastAug 2026Repairing a Crack in the Keel — This Had to WorkJul 2026Will the Engine Start? First Test after Hydrolock RebuildJul 2026

From Fish Under Sail — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.