There is absolutely no reason not to wire through a proper fuse and switch.
I know that some manufacturers and builders wire directly to the battery,
but this is violation of ABYC standards ...it's a safety issue. Would you
rather your boat burns up than sink? How about being liable for the dock
and the other boats around you? How about being faced with having to use a
bucket versus trying to survive a boat fire when underway? Just play it
safe, Bud. Put in a quality marine switch, fuse, and marine wiring. The
pump will come with instructions on wire gauge (or pick a size larger than
the wires hanging out of the pump itself.)

Brian D



"seawitch" wrote in message
oups.com...
i read a lot pro and con about the wiring and choosing a bilge pump.
my 38 ft wooden boat i have ample power and room, but my outboard run
about i need some good input what bilge pump and what wiring would be a
best , considering direct wire to battery ? please point me the right
direction ..