Re: Fuel/Water Separator- ?
Ive got a fuel/water separator(racor i blelieve) with the clear bottom and drain. After having a problem with my motor- "i think" slightly starving for fuel or maybe water in the fuel ive changed fuel filters and now maybe think its the fuel/water separator. Either way ive never changed the separator filter or drained it so i know im way over do to mess with it anyway. I thought it only drained any collected water but apparently i can drain fuel as well(is this just the fuel in the line to the tank?). If so i guess you would get the same when unscrewing the whole apparatus to change the filter?
The purpose of the clear bottom unit, is to give you a visual check for any water seperated from the fuel. As for the drain feature...it allows you to drain off this water (and some fuel), and get some extended life out of your filter element. But...the filter, itself, should be replaced at least every season.
The Racor units are usually 10 microns...and can be quickly 'clogged', if you have any contamination in your fuel system. The more common (and older) filter elements are around 20+ microns...and less sensitive, and restrictive.
I hope that your clear bottom unit is attached to an outboard...they are not USCG approved for inboard engine use!
