Re: Water Seperator
I've had real good luck with a Racor cannister type water separator with a clear bowl with drainage valve on the bottom. Actually the clear part isn't a factor since I don't actually visualize water vs. fuel in the bowl - it isn't clear enough! A metal drainage bowl would work just as well, imho. But I've found it handy to be able to drain the filter on a routine basis to avoid any surprises. It's usually only a matter of a couple of ounces of water, which is well within the capacity of the bowl and filter, but at least I know I'm keeping it clear of water. <br /><br />When I first got it, I ignorantly never drained it and eventually the whole filter filled up with water and caused a fuel problem and stopped me in the middle of nowhere with the family on board on a fairly swift river. This was "fairly" easily solved in the field by taking the cannister off, draining it and re-installing it. But you know what a hassel these things are when the family's on board and you're in a swift current! I carry a spare now, but never have the problem anymore because I drain the bowl regularly. Again, the way I work it, the metal bowl would work just as well.<br /><br />This is on an outboard application where the filter is out in the open. I don't believe filters with plastic bowls are appropriate for installations inside a compartment. I don't know about the metal bowls.<br /><br />My old I/O had a Racor cannister filter without drainage bowl. The only maintenance involved was to simply change the filter on whatever schedule made sense for your use and condensation issues. <br /><br />With the drainage bowl types, theoretically, you don't have to change the filter itself if you keep the bowl drained of water, but I change it in the spring anyway. (drain it in the fall before storage to avoid freezing issues).<br /><br />Both these systems definitely do their job in keeping the condensed water out of the carb. I've been very happy with both but prefer the drainage feature after using it for a couple of years.<br /><br />My outboard also has it's normal small in-line filter inside the motor cowling. That stays in place, although, I don't know if anything gets by the cannister filter. I change it every year as well and carry a spare after the incident above.<br /><br />In my experience and opinion, I think water separators should be standard equipment but I know people who think that they're not needed or that Heet can solve all condensation problems.<br /><br />Hope this helps.<br /><br />DJ
