My macerator pump needs replacement. This is the first boat I've had with an electric macerator and my friend says he's gone through many (they don't last). I suspect it's because they can't be run dry -- but isn't that the whole idea? (run until dry). The design flaw is I have no way to see when it is dry -- my tank is stainless and the level-gage isn't precise.

That same friend said he installed a diaphragm type electric pump that is made for that job. More expensive but more reliable. He didn't remember the type and he's sold that boat. I don't know if I can make that work without changing the through-hull because the macerator has a 1.5" intake and 1" output.

Can anyone help me short-cut to the best choices? Would prefer not to change the through-hull for obvious reasons, but would do it if it means I don't need to keep changing pumps every few years.