Fuel/Water seperator install

[tomn3]

Hi all,
This will be my first time changing the filter on my boat and I have a few questions,

Do I need to pinch the fuel lines to prevent leakage prior to spinning the old one off?
Do I need to fill the new filter before spinning it on or do you just use the bulb till it's firm? I saw a video of it but most people never discuss this part.

Thanks

 

[tomn3]

Re: Fuel/Water seperator install

One more item, I'm just replacing the filter with the exact same model. I assume the previous owner knew what to do. Is there a way to determine which one to use and wether a short or long one is neded? I currently have a Sierra 18-7944, 10 micron short for a Yamaha 115 4 dtroke.
Thanks

 

[Bustedknuckle84]

Re: Fuel/Water seperator install

pinching the lines would be best and doesnt hurt anything, however mine didnt leak much because i havent used the motor in a couple months. You do not need to fill it before screwing it on. The primer bulb will do that for you after u have installed the new filter. u are correct keepin pumping bulb till its hard as usual.
also i would replace with the same filter thats on it right now.

 

[gss036]

Re: Fuel/Water seperator install

opps, guess we were both typing at the same time.
The Sierra filter will work ok. Normally you don't need to pinch off the fuel line, try it and see if you get excess fuel flow, if you do just pinch with a set of needle nose vice grips,not enough to cut the line though. I guess it depends on where/how high your fuel tank is located. Personally, I have a shut off valve in the line before the filer housing.
I never had a problem with my old set up and did not have any fuel running. You may have an anti siphon valve in the tank and that to will stop normal fuel flow.

 

[DaNinja]

Re: Fuel/Water seperator install

Shouldn't have to pinch off any lines.
It's not a bad idea to carry a spare filter onboard. It's saved the day for me before.

 

[NYBo]

Re: Fuel/Water seperator install

Welcome to iboats!

No need to pinch the fuel line. In fact, because you could damage the line I think it's a bad idea. Whether you need a long or short filter is determined by the clearance you have underneath. If the long filter fits, go with that as it offers more filtration surface (and should therefore last longer). I fully agree with carrying a spare filter or two in zip-lock bags. If you suspect a fuel flow problem out on the water, take a spare out of the bag and place the bag over the old filter. Remove the old filter right into the bag and seal it. Minimum fuss and muss.

 

[pmillar]

Re: Fuel/Water seperator install

One habit I picked up tinkering on (motor) bikes- I use needles nose vice grips to pinch fuel lines closed. BUT, I slide some old hose (slit if needed) over the vice grips so the fuel line is being squeezed by rubber hose vs. the metal vice grips. That greatly reduces the odds of cutting your fuel line. Another easier option is just to wrap your fuel line with a rag before clamping/pinching it with vice grips.

 

[tomn3]

Re: Fuel/Water seperator install

Thanks all, did the replacement today. Need a wrench to get the old one off. Spilled a little gas on the way out but not bad. Oiled the gasket before putting the new one on, hand tight plus a 1/4 turn.
Question about the old one. The metal around the inside was rusted. Previous owner had it replaced but didn't use it much. I poured the gas into a glass quart jar and there was a good 1/4 inch of "stuff" on the bottom. Is this a concern? I plan on changing filters frequently for a while. Engine runs good.

 

[gt2003]

Re: Fuel/Water seperator install

Ok, I got the boat all fired up yesterday but couldn't get the fuel/water seperator loose! Is there a trick to it or did someone just overtighten the one that is on there now? The engine is a 1997 Mercruiser 4.3L with the alpha one gen two lower unit. Thanks

 

[Blake0912]

Re: Fuel/Water seperator install

I use an oil filter strap wrench to get mine lose. Since mines in a weird place i cant get a good grip on it with just my hand. Its only a few bucks for the wrench.
http://www.best-price.com/product/lisle-swivel-grip-oil-fuel-filter-wrench-no-54400/31758988/1/

 

[gss036]

Re: Fuel/Water seperator install

Ok, I got the boat all fired up yesterday but couldn't get the fuel/water seperator loose! Is there a trick to it or did someone just overtighten the one that is on there now? The engine is a 1997 Mercruiser 4.3L with the alpha one gen two lower unit. Thanks

Sounds like it over tightened. Make sure you put the metal type basin back on for I/O. Put a coating of oil of the "O" ring or gasket.