This is a follow-up to my thread on installing a float switch for my bilge pump https://www.bbcboards.net/showthread...9#post13442619.

I need some suggestions on how to fix the float switch to the hull. In order for the float switch to work correctly, it must be installed at the same level or slightly above the bilge pump. I'm installing this float switch in my small, 14 foot Lund. (The boat has a full floor, carpet, and a raised front deck. So, it's not a regular open floor type fishing boat.) The bilge area in the rear of the boat is divided in half by an aluminum panel with holes at the bottom to allow any water to flow from side to side. The starboard side takes up about 2/3 of the rear of the boat and houses two batteries (which sit on a small shelf), the bilge pump, and the livewell pump, as well as all of the hoses for both. The port side is where the 6 gallon portable gas tank sits on an elevated shelf. But, there is a section about 8 inches long and 6 inches wide at the center of the boat that is open down to the hull. There is no room to install the float switch on the starboard side so this area on the port side is the only area where I can install the float switch.

I have cleaned the grime from this area and am down to the bare metal. The question becomes how to install the float switch to the metal. In order to get the float switch level with the bilge pump, I need to elevate it. It turns out that a small piece of 2 X 4 is perfect for this. I will screw the float switch to the top of the 2 X 4. But, how should I attach the 2 X 4 to the hull? My idea is to use RTV silicone. But, to allow the silicone to grip the hull I will need to rough up the aluminum. Instead of doing that, I thought about installing a small piece of anti-skid material (the kind used on steps...see link below) on the bare aluminum and then using silicone on top of that to attach the 2 X 4. The glue on these anti-slip pieces is SUPER sticky, so I doubt that it would every loosen up. Then, I can also drill some holes in the bottom of the 2 X 4 in order to help it grip the silicone.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/SKID-GUARD-...p-Tape/3185621

(I wish I could simply use screws through the divider panel between the two bilge areas to hold the 2 X 4 piece in place. But, to do that I would need to remove several hoses, etc. to get access to the starboard side of the panel. Too much of a PITA if the silicone will work just as well.)

Whatcha think?