Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit Review

Let’s Talk About Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit

The Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit is a versatile 12V pump designed for various fluid transfer applications. Manufactured by Rule, this kit boasts a flow rate of up to 7 US gallons per minute and a pressure of 14 psi, making it suitable for diesel, fresh water, and salt water. The Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit includes essential accessories, such as a spray nozzle, battery clips, and layflat hose.

I’ve encountered countless situations needing quick fluid transfers in the field, from emptying water tanks at remote campsites to siphoning fuel in emergency scenarios. I often struggled with slow, manual pumps or unreliable electric ones that would fail at the worst moments. The promise of a robust, self-priming pump with included accessories is what initially piqued my interest in the Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit.

Upon unboxing, the Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit felt solid and well-built. The black pump housing appeared durable, and the included accessories seemed practical. I immediately noted the 4-meter cable with battery clips, which offered ample reach for connecting to a power source.

Compared to basic bilge pumps I’ve used in the past, the Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit appeared to be a step up in terms of build quality and included features. Cheaper pumps often lack a spray nozzle or have flimsy hoses, making them less versatile. This kit seemed to offer a more complete solution. My decision to go with this Rule pump was based on the brand’s reputation for reliability and the kit’s apparent completeness.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit looked promising, but the true test would be its performance under real-world conditions. I was excited to see if it could live up to its specifications and simplify my fluid transfer tasks.


Real-World Testing: Putting Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit while emptying a portable water tank after a week-long camping trip. The tank was situated slightly uphill from my vehicle, requiring the pump to draw water against gravity. I connected the battery clips to my car battery, submerged the intake hose, and switched on the pump.

The pump primed quickly and began transferring water efficiently, even with the slight incline. Even in cold conditions, the pump performed flawlessly, moving the water quickly and efficiently. The included spray nozzle was useful for directing the water flow into a drainage ditch.

The only initial surprise was the pump’s noise level. While not deafening, it was louder than I expected for a small inline pump. Otherwise, the first-time use was successful and significantly easier than siphoning by hand.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use, the Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit has proven to be a reliable tool. I’ve used it for transferring water, diesel fuel (with proper precautions), and even for a makeshift deck wash on a fishing trip. The pump continues to perform consistently, maintaining a strong flow rate.

The pump housing shows no signs of wear or cracking, even after exposure to sunlight and varying temperatures. The layflat hose has held up well to repeated use and storage. I’ve found that rinsing the pump with fresh water after each use prevents any build-up or corrosion, making maintenance straightforward.

Compared to a cheaper submersible pump I previously owned, the Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit outperforms it in both flow rate and durability. The inline design also allows for easier cleaning and inspection. Overall, the Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit has exceeded my expectations and become an indispensable part of my gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit

Specifications

The Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance.

  • Flow Rate: Up to 7 US Gallons per Minute (GPM). This ensures quick and efficient fluid transfer.
  • Pressure: Up to 14 PSI. This allows for pumping against gravity and through longer hoses.
  • Voltage: 12 Volts DC. Compatible with standard vehicle batteries.
  • Suitable Fluids: Diesel, Fresh Water, and Salt Water. Adds versatility to different use-case scenarios.
  • Accessories: Spray Nozzle, 4m Cable with Battery Clips, 4m Layflat Hose. Provides a complete pumping solution.

These specifications are crucial for anyone needing a reliable and portable fluid transfer solution. The flow rate and pressure determine the pump’s efficiency, while the 12V compatibility makes it easy to power in remote locations. The inclusion of essential accessories further enhances its usability.

Performance & Functionality

The Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit performs its intended job admirably. Its 7 GPM flow rate allows for quick fluid transfers, while the 14 PSI pressure handles elevation changes with ease. It has proven to be reliable and consistent in various applications, from draining tanks to pumping fuel.

A notable strength is its self-priming capability, which eliminates the need for manual priming in most situations. The main weakness is the noise level, which could be an issue in noise-sensitive environments. It meets and often exceeds expectations for a pump in its class.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit features a compact and robust design. The materials used appear to be high-quality, and the pump feels solid in hand. It is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport and maneuver.

The pump is user-friendly, with a simple on/off switch and straightforward hose connections. There is no significant learning curve involved, making it accessible to users of all experience levels.

Durability & Maintenance

The Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit appears to be built to last. The sturdy housing and durable components suggest a long lifespan with proper care. Easy maintenance involves rinsing the pump and hoses after each use, preventing build-up and corrosion.

The inline design allows for easy access to internal components for inspection and cleaning. The pump is likely repairable with readily available replacement parts if needed, but I haven’t encountered any issues that require repair so far.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit comes with a practical set of accessories:

  • Spray Nozzle: Provides a focused stream of water for washing or rinsing.
  • 4m Cable with Battery Clips: Offers ample reach and easy connection to a 12V power source.
  • 4m Layflat Hose: Flexible and easy to store, yet durable enough for demanding applications.

While the kit doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the hose fittings are compatible with standard sizes, allowing for the use of different hoses or connections if desired. The pump itself is designed as a self-contained unit, with limited scope for modification.

Pros and Cons of Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit

Pros

  • High Flow Rate: The 7 GPM flow rate allows for quick and efficient fluid transfer.
  • Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials for long-lasting performance.
  • Versatile Applications: Suitable for diesel, fresh water, and salt water.
  • Complete Kit: Includes essential accessories like a spray nozzle and hoses.
  • Easy to Use: Simple operation with no significant learning curve.

Cons

  • Relatively high noise.
  • Limited customization options.


Who Should Buy Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit?

The Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit is perfect for:

  • Campers and Outdoor Enthusiasts: For emptying water tanks, cleaning gear, or providing a portable shower.
  • Boaters and Anglers: For deck washing, bilge pumping, or transferring fuel.
  • Emergency Preparedness: For siphoning fuel in emergency situations or accessing water from remote sources.
  • Farmers and Ranchers: For transferring water to livestock or equipment.

This product might not be suitable for:

  • Individuals needing a silent pump.
  • Applications requiring highly precise flow control.

Must-have accessories or modifications might include:

  • A higher-quality intake filter for dirty water applications.
  • A longer hose for reaching distant water sources.

Conclusion on Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit

The Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit is a reliable and versatile solution for a variety of fluid transfer needs. Its high flow rate, durable construction, and included accessories make it a valuable addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s gear collection. While the noise level and limited customization are minor drawbacks, its overall performance and ease of use more than compensate.

The price of $185.49 is justified considering the pump’s quality, performance, and the included accessories. This is an investment in a tool that will likely last for years.

I would personally recommend the Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit to anyone needing a dependable and portable fluid transfer solution. If you’re tired of struggling with slow, manual pumps or unreliable electric ones, give the Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit a try – you won’t be disappointed. Invest in the Rule iL500 Plus Inline Pump Kit today, and simplify your fluid transfer tasks.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top