DIY automatic ballast install

I finished an automatic ballast installation on my boat and posted the project on wakeboarder.com if anyone is interested.

http://forums.wakeboarder.com/viewtopic.php?t=74688

I am in the process of doing this right now. In your write up you said you had a total cost of $397??

I have a 3 bag system and the bags alone are $330, I am just at about $850 total. I am starting from scratch and I have included all costs from bags, fittings, pumps, hose, clamps etc....

HOW DID YOU BUILD IT SO CHEAP?

The bags are the most expensive parts. My install only has one ballast in the ski locker so I'd say you're doing good at $850.

(Message edited by fossilfuelburner on March 20, 2008)

nice writeup. I have a question about the check valve. You said you used a "spring" check valve. I don't have firsthand knowledge, but most of the info I have seen says that aerator pumps do not put out much pressure; therefore most people go with a "swing" check valve, which works with a rubber flap in the valve.

If your systems works that's great, but if the pump has trouble pushing water thru the cv, you could always switch to a swing cv for not too much $$.