Description
Attwood Sahara MK2 500 GPH 12V Auto Bilge Pump | Boat Supply Store
This 12V automatic bilge pump is engineered to address common operational failures, particularly air-locks, via its patented X-Air™ Impeller technology. It delivers a consistent 500 GPH flow rate, suitable for routine water removal in moderate bilge conditions, such as those encountered on a center console fishing vessel operating in the Gulf Coast waters. Featuring a cool-running permanent magnet motor with a stainless steel shaft and steel-reinforced seals, this unit provides enhanced protection against water ingress and electrolysis, ensuring extended service life and reliability.
Key Features
- Eliminates air-locks with the patented X-Air™ Impeller
- Extended service life due to cool-running design
- Durable construction with permanent magnet motors and stainless steel shafts
- Enhanced protection against water ingress and electrolysis (40% better than MK1)
- Simplified installation with external mounting feet and integrated outlet
- Easy maintenance with one-handed service pump cartridge access
- Reduced cycling and extended life with SteadySwitch™ technology
- Universal fitment for straightforward replacement of existing pumps
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 500 GPH |
| Voltage | 12V DC |
| Operation | Automatic |
| Motor Type | Permanent Magnet |
| Shaft Material | Stainless Steel |
| Seal Type | Steel-Reinforced |
| Impeller Type | X-Air™ |
| Switch Type | SteadySwitch™ |
Who This Is For
Boat owners and marine technicians requiring a dependable, automatic bilge pump for both freshwater and saltwater environments. It is particularly beneficial for those prioritizing simplified installation, efficient maintenance, and robust protection against common failure modes like air-locks and electrolysis.
How It Compares
| Feature | Attwood Sahara MK2 500 GPH 12V Auto Bilge Pump | Rule |
|---|---|---|
| GPH | 500 | 500, 1100 |
| Voltage | 12V | 12V, 12V |
| Automatic | Yes | Yes, Yes |
| Air Lock Prevention | Patented X-Air™ Impeller | No, No |
| Protection vs. Water Ingress/Electrolysis | 2X better than leading competition | Not Specified, Not Specified |
| Ease of Service | One-handed cartridge service, external feet, integrated outlet | Not Specified, Not Specified |
Common Concerns Answered
Is the 500 GPH flow rate sufficient for all bilge situations?
The 500 GPH rating is ideal for routine bilge water management on smaller to medium-sized vessels. For very large boats or scenarios involving extreme flooding, a higher GPH pump may be necessary, but this unit excels in reliable, everyday operation and preventing common failure points.
Is the installation complex?
Designed for straightforward installation with external mounting feet and an integrated outlet, the Attwood Sahara MK2 simplifies replacement of older pumps. Basic knowledge of marine electrical wiring and plumbing is recommended, but the universal mounting pattern mitigates significant complexity.
Why is this pump more expensive than basic models?
The higher price point reflects the advanced engineering, including the patented X-Air™ Impeller for air-lock prevention, enhanced durability against water ingress and electrolysis, and the user-friendly service features, which collectively provide superior reliability and a longer operational lifespan compared to simpler alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the GPH rating of the Attwood Sahara MK2 S500 Bilge Pump?
The Attwood Sahara MK2 S500 Bilge Pump has a flow rate of 500 gallons per hour (GPH).
Is the Attwood Sahara MK2 S500 Bilge Pump automatic?
Yes, the Attwood Sahara MK2 S500 features automatic functionality controlled by its integrated SteadySwitch™.
What voltage does the Attwood Sahara MK2 S500 Bilge Pump operate on?
This bilge pump operates on a standard 12V DC power supply.
How does the Sahara MK2 prevent air-locks?
The Sahara MK2 prevents air-locks through its patented X-Air™ Impeller, which is specifically engineered to eliminate this common cause of pump failure.
How does the Sahara MK2 offer improved protection against water ingress and electrolysis compared to previous models or competitors?
The Sahara MK2 provides 40% better protection against water ingress and electrolysis than the MK1 model and is twice as effective as leading competitors, due to its advanced sealing and construction.
