Jabsco 50880 Series Shower Drain & Bilge Pump, 4.2 GPM

Overview

The Jabsco 50880 is a self-priming diaphragm pump range for shower drain, sink drain, and auxiliary bilge applications on 12V or 24V DC boats. It moves up to 16 lpm, equal to 4.2 US gpm, and can self-prime up to 3 m or 10 ft, which helps when the pump has to pull water from a shower sump area, shallow bilge, or drain line rather than sit directly in the water.

The single-diaphragm layout gives this pump dry-running capability and removes the need for a separate filter in typical shower drain installations. Connections accept 19 mm or 25 mm ports, also listed as 3/4 in or 1 in, so it can be matched to common marine drain hose or semi-rigid pipework.

This range suits boats that need a compact drain or auxiliary bilge pump with flexible port positioning, ignition-protection compliance, and separate versions for 12V and 24V electrical systems.

Key features

• Self-priming performance up to 3 m or 10 ft for installations where the pump sits above the water source.
• Flow up to 16 lpm or 4.2 US gpm for shower drain, sink drain, and auxiliary bilge service.
• Dry-running capability, useful in drain systems where water flow can stop before the pump is switched off.
• No separate filter required in the pump assembly, which keeps routine access simpler in tight lockers and bilge spaces.
• Multi-position pump head and ports make hose routing easier when space around bulkheads, tanks, or cabinetry is limited.
• Accepts 19 mm or 25 mm ports for compatibility with common marine drain hose sizes.
• DC motor with thermal overload protection for intermittent-duty use up to 30 minutes continuously.
• Meets ISO 8846 MARINE and USCG ignition-protection requirements, with bilge pump standards including ISO 8849 and ISO 15083.

Variants

The 50880 range is offered in two electrical configurations for different onboard DC systems.

The voltage and recommended fuse size change by variant. The pump layout, application range, self-priming rating, port options, and maximum stated flow remain consistent across the 50880 models.

• 50880-1000: Voltage 12V, fuse size 10A. This version matches the 12V DC systems found on many small and mid-size powerboats, sailboats, and fishing boats.
• 50880-1100: Voltage 24V, fuse size 5A. This version is for vessels with a 24V DC house or service system and uses a lower fuse rating for that electrical setup.

Installation and setup

Mount the pump where the inlet line can stay as short and direct as practical. The ports can be rotated to suit the hose run, and the pump head can be repositioned for better access during installation. When the unit is mounted vertically, the motor should sit above the pump head.

Use spiral-reinforced hose with a smooth internal bore, or a suitable semi-rigid pipe system, and secure the inlet and outlet with stainless steel hose clamps. Suction-side connections need to be airtight and free from sharp bends or restrictions, since leaks or tight hose routing can reduce priming and flow.

Electrical and system integration

Select the 12V or 24V model to match the boat supply voltage. The positive lead should be protected with the correct fuse or circuit breaker as close to the power source as practical, with the 12V version using a 10A fuse and the 24V version using a 5A fuse.

Electrical connections should be made in dry locations. In damp areas, seal the connections to reduce corrosion risk, especially on saltwater boats where moisture and vibration can shorten service life.

Use on board

This pump is a practical match for shower sump discharge, sink drain transfer, and auxiliary bilge pumping where a compact diaphragm pump is preferred over an exposed centrifugal pump. It is also useful in shallow bilge spaces where there may not be enough standing water for some pump styles to work effectively.

Any overboard discharge for bilge service must be installed above both the static and heeled waterlines. This pump must not be used for petrol, petroleum products, or liquids with a flash point below 37 C.

Maintenance and care

Disconnect power before inspection or service. Check electrical connections periodically, with closer attention in saltwater areas, since corrosion can reduce performance or stop the pump from running.

The motor should be kept protected from corrosion, and any rust should be removed before repainting the affected area. Keeping hose runs clear and clamps tight will also help the pump maintain suction lift and steady discharge.