> My problem is what to do with the outlet. Should it go through the
> side? The deck? The bottom?! How do I secure it to the plywood? Do I need
> a check valve at the hull surface? What kind? Will a 1" hole look
> strange in the overall appearance of the hull? Can I really cut that hole
> in a beautiful piece of plywood? Should I buy an expensive hole saw or can
> I do it with a cheap spade bit?

Okay, John, NOT the bottom, not the bottom. You can purchase an outlet fitting from most "Boats'r'Us" stores --- usually nylon or plastic. Try for a lower profile type. It can go up through the deck, but you'll be blowing the bilge water --- and anything else in there --- up on the deck and, if the wind's wrong --- onto you. High on the side is the least-bad place for the outlet. A hole saw is your best bet for the surgery --- and this thing isn't pretty, but you will notice it more than anyone else.

Re the check valve: if the Guzzler is as simple as the Henderson --- and it appeared to be --- it'll have a flapper valve for the inflow and some sort of choke valve at the outlet which will keep water from flooding back into the pump when you roll or brace; the most you'll get is a hose-full of water, and that should drain out when the boat heels the other way.

What are you using to pick up the water? A strum box is a simple open-bottom fitting that allows the system to optimize water pickup by having the open area low and flat to the bilge. Just remember to fasten down the pick-up hose, 'cause it'll float otherwise and won't work. A strum box can be simulated by cutting the end of the hose on a long diagonal, and holding the open area close to the bottom with small hold down devices.

Good luck with it.

Jack Martin