The galley on early Catalina 22s had a hand operated, piston type water pump from a manufacturer who has since gone out of business and for which parts are no longer available. The previous owner told me that the pump needed work and since most older parts like this were made better than the modern stuff (plastic), I decided to see if it could be restored.
Do kids play with marbles anymore?
After I disassembled the pump, I was pleasantly surprised to discover (besides a glass marble for a check valve) that the piston cup was in good condition. The cylinder cleaned up nicely with some Bartender’s Friend and a round brush made for cleaning paint guns. The only thing that looked worn was the small O ring that seals the piston shaft at the top of the cylinder. These are standard 1/16″ wall x 3/8″ diameter O rings that can be found in better hardware stores.
The chrome plating on the pot metal base and handle were corroded, so cleaned them with a wire brush and sprayed on several coats of white enamel.
The restored pump works like new and will probably last another 32 years.
The Bottom Line
Suggested price: $64.37
$tingy Sailor cost: $0.69
Savings: $63.68
Do you have an original galley hand pump that still works?
The $tingy Sailor 
Hi $tingy!
Just bought a Cat 22. Loving your blog!
I am trying to service the same (or similar) pump you have in the photo. When I pull up on the pump, I am getting sprayed with water (through hand pump, not the faucet spout). Any ideas? I see a little rubber o ring, but maybe it is in the wrong place?
Thanks!
Hi, Jeff
That O ring is probably worn out. You should be able to find a replacement at your favorite hardware store. While you have the pump apart, make the piston rod as clean and smooth as you can and oil it lightly with something non-toxic like olive oil.
Hope that helps,
$tingy