Help with bilge pump question

[ridgerunner24]

I have just purchased a 2001 210 CC logic. I am having a problem.. when the bilge pump toggle switch is in auto position is does not work, when in manual position it works for 10 to 15 seconds the trips the breaker. When I reset the breaker it will only run another 10 to 15 seconds & trips again. Can anyone give me an idea of what might be going on? ANY suggestions will be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

[rudderhinge]

Pull the head off the pump and make sure that it is not plugged or locked-up. It sounds like it may be locked-up. Just release the two side clips on the pump and pull the pump body from the pump base and check to see if the pump impeller spins free or not. Also check the strainer and clean it if needed. Turn the pump body up-side-down and turn it on and see if it spins. Also you can put the switch in auto, turn the pump up-side-down and check to see if the float switch is working. If the pump is free and not plugged and it still won't run then check the connection/plug and make sure you have a good connection. If it still won't run, un-plug the connector and see if you have 12 volts at the plug when the switch is turned on. If you do and the pump still won't run you will need to replace the pump. Hope this helps and let us know what you find

[MolarBoater]

Make sure all the ground connections are secure and waterproof. I learned long ago that those circuit breakers are there for a reason.

If this is a Rule Automatic. The bilge pump is either on or off. When ON, it should check for waterpressure in the pump every 3 minutes by running for @3 seconds.

Inspect like Rudderhinge rec. and see what you find.

Rudderhinge, what you doing up so early in the morning!

[ridgerunner24]

Thanks so much Rudderhinge! I cleaned the strainer ( VERY clogged!) and now it seems to be working just fine. I sure do appreciate the help. One more question... I will be docking the boat (rather than trailering it each time) What is the best way to empty the live wells? Do I pull the plugs while moving OR do I need to take the boat out of the water to properly drain them? Thanks!