Salt water pump "hunting"

[mikemcgregor]

I have a salt water pump to wash down decks whilst at sea.
The last time I tried to use it there was an initial steady flow from the hose but then the pump seemed to switch on and off and as a result the water flow was flowing in short bursts.

Any clues as how to resolve the problem gratefully received?

 

[kashurst]

could be the accumulator (if fitted) diaphragm has failed or just a dodgy pressure switch (little micro switch)
or it could be the impeller has gone in the pump. what kind of pump is it?

 

[jrudge]

All of the above plus the possibility of a collapsing hose.

 

[mikemcgregor]

Good question! The boat is in Spain and I am now in the UK. Problem started the day before I was due back to UK. Did not have time to inspect before returning. Just looking for pointers before I go back out.

Cheers