Hand Bilge Pump (tin bilge pump updated)

thingiverse

Something that I fondly remember from my youth, a time long past, is the "Tin Bilge Pump". With a 3D printer and Fusion 360, I'm able to recreate an old friend. The pump is primarily made of standard PVC pipe and fittings. The main body consists of a length (I used 48 inches; you can make it whatever length you want) of 2-inch PVC pipe and a 2-inch PVC "T". The inner shaft is 3/4 inch PVC pipe. These files worked for me, providing a close fit that may require some sanding to fit perfectly. The pump cup (pump leather, an old term) is the only printed part not made from PLA. I used Priline TPU instead. All parts are 100% infill, with the piston-to-shaft connector featuring 1/4-20 threads; print that part at 1mm layers, and the rest at 2mm. Other required parts include one 1/4x1/2 inch bolt, one 1/4 inch nut, and one 1/4 inch washer to hold the check valve in the foot. You'll also need a 1/4x1 inch piece to secure the piston assembly to the piston shaft connector, as well as three #8-1/2 inch self-tapping screws to attach the foot to the 2-inch PVC. Additionally, you'll need a piece of inner tube to cut out the check valves; these valve cutouts measure 35mm with a 1/4 inch center hole for the piston and 50mm with a center hole for the foot. Good luck with your project!