Recent content by MikeDobbs

  1. MikeDobbs

    Merc 3.0LX - Fuel Pump Gasket

    I'm replacing the fuel pump in my Merc 3.0LX engine, and the new Sierra pump comes with 3 gaskets. Am I supposed to use all 3? Does it depend on the engine? Engine Serial #: 0K277779 I couldn't post a picture, so here's a link to a website showing the pump and 3 gaskets...
  2. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    Yes, thanks for checking. It's a new tank, and I had to pull the assembly to get enough clearance to install the fitting, so I double checked the pickup tube while it was out.
  3. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    I am new to these outboard fittings, and when I connect the fitting to the tank there is a little play (as can be seen in video). Is this normal, or is there an issue with this fitting? Thank you. @Chris1956 @Scott06
  4. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    One last question for anyone following this thread. Where is the safest place to put the external fuel tank while underway? My boat is a pretty typical 90's 18ft I/O bowrider except for the stern. The stern has a solid engine cover all the way across the beam (similar to the picture I'm...
  5. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    OK thanks, I appreciate the info.
  6. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    When you say "remove the fuel from existing tank and clean it out," do you mean clean out the fuel and return it to the tank, or do you mean clean out the tank?
  7. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    I just want to check I understand what you're saying. It sounds like you're saying I can basically clean/strain the fuel in the tank and put it back; but perhaps you're just suggesting siphoning some from the bottom of the tank to test and see how bad the contamination is? Are you saying I can...
  8. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    That's my thinking exactly.
  9. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    I do have a rebuilt carb I can put on before hooking up tan external tank. I haven't started the boat yet this season due to an injury, but am going to get her going this week. The carb has been an ongoing issue- I've never made it through a season without having to replace/rebuild a carb...
  10. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    Yes it does- I could use the extra input to plumb the separate tank, but I figured it was easier to just pull the existing line so I don't have to install a fuel selector switch
  11. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    You're saying to just eliminate the fuel filter and run the tank directly to the fuel pump? I was thinking I should keep the fuel filter in the mix since I can't avoid Ethanol fuel here. I was planning to simple plug the fuel line coming from the tank to the filter- are you saying I need to...
  12. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    I put Startron in with every tank to combat Ethanol Fuel (non-ethanol fuel is basically non-existent where I live). The boat was 20 years old when I got it, so I have no idea what may have been used before. I have not heard of Startron causing issues before- in your experience can that cause...
  13. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    Thanks for the response. This may be a stupid question, but if the line (and therefore tank) are below deck, wouldn't that allow fuel vapor to escape the tank below deck? Obviously the blower should pull that out, but I was thinking it should be located above deck in the open air.
  14. MikeDobbs

    Run Merc 3.0LX on external fuel tank

    Hello all. Is it possible to run a Mercruiser 3.0lx engine on an external tank (like outboards run on)? I've had issues every season with my carb getting gummed up, and I'd like to eliminate the tank from the loop for troubleshooting and less hassle for now. I just want to be sure this is safe...
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