310 SS under steps / dashboard bilge

[Belleair302]

For owners who wonder where this area is and what it looks like here are two images which may help. The previous owner to myself flooded his 'cubby storage area' by not looking at why this area needs emptying and it ruined his carpet. I inspect mine every three months and after some serious rains here in FL it was time to clean.

Attached are two images showing the access panel and the bilge with some water in. This was emptied and the area cleaned. No smells and no mildew.

Hope this proves helpful.

 

[Hopperpilot]

I also had this area flood out when my water line to the sink cracked while underway with the water pump on (always shut off the pump). Caused 3in water in the cabin. These forward bilges are designed to catch rain water or sea splash forward of the cockpit but have no drain or pump. Bad idea! You could install a remote pump with the foot in this small sump, but I opted to check every time I go out as part of a Pre-mission. Wipe out with bleach on a paper towel will keep it fresh. A bilge pump maybe later if I'm bored this winter and need a project!