My bilge pump will not work when i push the switch on the dash. It works when it is hooked direct to battery. Why is this

Not really enough info. If you are putting in a bilge pump then you need to attach as close to its working point and as far back as the water will be. Some people use a big hose clamp screwed to an anchor point. Be careful not to punch a hole in the bottom of the hull. Get one with an automatic switch so it turns on when it detects water. And wire it directly to the battery if your leaving it in the water ... no good if the boat fills while parked and no power .

Many shade tree guys will tell you run a switch and direct wire. This is not a good answer. The circuit includes an oil pressure switch which kills the pump in the event of an accident, to prevent the pump from running and feeding gas to a possible fire. There is also a bypass to supply juice while cranking. Fix it right! Check fuel pump fuses (sometimes two) and fuel pump relay.

check switches and connections

Check inertia or "emergency fuel shut off" switch. Usually on inside of firewall near pedals or heater.

ck alarms system they come with seperate fuses also cicuit hooked to

If pump does not work when power is directly applied, then pump will need to be replaced. Have you tested the power from the fuel pump relay?

check the ground wires ,

Bad contacts or Bad solenoid

You are on the right track. Whenever you can hook something directly to the battery and it works but doesn't work when connected to the wiring harness it tells you a few things such as: Short in wires, relay or switch bad, fuse bad.

If I were you I would first test the wiper switch because more times than not it is the culprit:

1. Remove three screws at the bottom of the steering column cover.

2. Turn the steering wheel to the left and remove the two screws that attach the wiper switch to the column.

3. Pull the wiper switch outward and disconnect the harness.

4. At this point you can do one of two things: Take apart the switch and find the contacts for the washer switch. They may be fused to a brass bar. If so separate the brass bar from the contact. You may be able to manipulate the little brass bar to work a little better but it is probably cracked and worn out.

The part number for the switch is:

Honda SWITCH ASSY., WIPER

Part# 35256-S84-A01

Hope this helps,
AadoubleA