Suggestions?-Engine Sump/Bilge

[SeaJay]

I’m looking for tips, ideas, suggestions, etc., on the design of the bilge area immediately under the engine. This is new construction so I have a clean slate to work with (the engine is a Beta 75 hp). Questions in my mind have to do with clearance under the oil pan, bilge drainage, and oil containment. This may not be a critical detail, but ideally, how should this area be set up? Any input is appreciated.

Regards,
SeaJay

[mongo75]

We need more specifics- are you just asking how the area should be built?

[SeaJay]

Danny,

I'm interested what needs to be considered in this area...for instance, should drainage from aft of the engine just run directly under the engine, or should I laminate a couple of pvc drainage to the keel and then form an oil containment sump around the engine. I would like to get the engine down as low as possible, but am wondering if I may be overlooking something. I'm not thinking I'd want to drop the oil pan, but you never know if the gasket might leak. The Beta engine has a built in oil change pump so I wouldn't have to get a the drain plug on a regular basis. As I said, it is not a critical issue, but I thought I'd check to see if anyone had 2 cents to say on the subject.

Regards,

SeaJay

[north stream]

Seajay,

do you have enough room under the engine that you may access for maintenance or cleaning purposes,if possible, you may create your oil collecting tank install a sump pump and connect to your discharge system for waste oil.

cheers!

[SeaJay]

North Stream,

I have considered what you have suggested. If I use the Beta engine, this should not be necessary on a regular basis as the oil change system is built into the engine itself and is accessable from the top. A containment sump could be handy but would limit access to the area below the engine.

One thing I should have mentioned is that the boat has a "canoe" shaped hull and is very flat in this area (both forward and aft as well as athwartship),making for minimal clearance underneath.