Bilge pump handle doesn't fit

[Barton Seagoon]

The handle for our bilge pump doesn't fit securely in the socket on the pump, which makes it difficult to use. It seems as if the socket has shrunk or the handle has expanded in diameter. Since the pump is out in the open, in the cockpit, I suspect there may be some corrosion in the ferrule. Would we be safe to use some abrasive paper to widen the socket, or should we file a small amount from the end of the handle? Or maybe get somebody to weld a slightly narrower piece on the end of the handle?

 

[Refueler]

My Henderson 5 mounted in aft locker has the same problem ... handle over the years is a bad fit ...

I keep meaning to get a carpenters 'spade' hole drill turned slowly to ease the socket to allow handle to fit better.

 

[rotrax]

Cut a slot in a bit of studding or wooden dowel. Wrap a strip of sandpaper/emery in the slot, rough side out until it is a tight fit in the hole. Spin it in a power drill.

Works every time .....................

 

[thinwater]

Then grease to prevent further corrosion.

 

[Refueler]

Then grease to prevent further corrosion.

I would suggest something a little more 'friendly'.... something like silicon spray or Vaseline. My pump handle sits in clips with ropes etc. - so grease is not something I want TBH

 

[Arcady]

If the socket is plastic and only slightly undersized, I might be tempted to heat the end of the handle with a blow torch to a decent temperature and then carefully push it into the socket. If you don’t push it in straight there’s undoubtedly scope for it to go horribly wrong, but there’s something about it that appeals to my lazy/pyromaniacally inclined nature.