According
to the surveyor's report, this boat probably sank slowly at the
dock because of a leak in the outdrive's diaphragm, but water could
have just as easily come in through the stuffing box, a poorly caulked
through hull, a loose hose, or even a leaky engine hatch. Once water
starts finding its way below, even the best bilge pump is vulnerable
to a jammed float switch or a dead battery.