Which Water Separator Is The "Best" For My Setup?

[BoatNoobie]

I have a Mercury 60 4-stroke on my Lowe boat. I figure might as well install a water separator to hopefully prevent sucking in water.

I originally was going to buy the OEM Mercury kit.

But then I read about the Racor version with the clear bottom to see the water and can drain it out. The problem I'm having is, which version am I suppose to use? Looking at West Marine's site, I see 8.

Or should I just stick with the Merc kit.

Also, does it matter if the W/S is installed lying down at an angle? I want to install it in the nook in front of my motor. Pretty sure dont have enough room to secure it in a vertical position.

 

[Lyle29464]

Re: Which Water Separator Is The "Best" For My Setup?

both filters need to be installed upright. That is how it separates water etc.

The all metal one is required in most areas to be used in a closed space if you have an inboard engine. The plastic or glass can normaly be used on an outboard. I would check with local regs. One time they didn't like them with a built in tank when the filter was inclosed also. Details may be on the box.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Which Water Separator Is The "Best" For My Setup?

Buy a cheap filter head. Then when its time to change the filter, buy a Racor replacement filter to fit the head.

No problems using the clear bottom for an outboard.

Filters have to be mounted vertically, no matter what type you buy.

 

[robert graham]

Re: Which Water Separator Is The "Best" For My Setup?

That Mercury filter looks exactly like the one sold at Walmart for $27. I've had the Walmart unit for several years and it works like a charm, every now and then I just unscrew it, dump out the fuel/water/dirt/whatever, and screw it back on, keep a spare cartridge(Walmart $7) in the boat for if/when I need it. This filter is fine for my 90HP rig, but for big motor/twin motor set-ups maybe the Racor or other upscale/higher priced units would be better. No doubt in my mind that a fuel/water separator is the best preventive maintenance item they've come up with so far. Remember to use the Stabil Marine in your gas tank.