in line fuel filter

Javelin JD

Petty Officer 3rd Class
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May 4, 2013
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85
OK, I know it may be a rookie question, but where should I install an in-line fuel filter. Should it go between the tank and the bulb, or between the bulb and the engine. Here's my logic or lack of. If it's between the primer bulb and the engine, the filter can be there to catch any debris coming from the tank and/or from the bulb itself. If it's between the tank and the bulb, it can catch any debris before it gets to the bulb. Thanks for your help.
 

boobie

Supreme Mariner
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Nov 5, 2009
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20,826
Re: in line fuel filter

What type of filter are you talking about ??
 

Javelin JD

Petty Officer 3rd Class
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May 4, 2013
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85
Re: in line fuel filter

As far as brand name, I haven't a clue, was going to get one tomorrow when I'm off work. But was gonna find a clear in-line filter that would allow me to observe any debris in the fuel line. I know they sell them here, but I was told Walmart also carries them.
 

Georgesalmon

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Apr 14, 2012
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1,793
Re: in line fuel filter

mine was between the bulb and engine until I put in a much better and a lot more expensive water separator type this spring.
 

SolingSailor

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Dec 24, 2009
Messages
197
Re: in line fuel filter

I asked myself the same question when I recently put together a fuel line from parts. I put the filter between the tank and the bulb, because I thought it would be better to draw fuel into the filter on the suction cycle of the bulb, rather than pump it through the filter under higher pressure during the "squeeze" cycle. I really don't know if there is a standard practice, but there are many experts here who can give the definitive answer.
 
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kfa4303

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Sep 17, 2010
Messages
6,094
Re: in line fuel filter

Hi JD. I add a small in-line fuel filter to all my vintage OMC motors. I install them in the line running from the fuel pump to the carb. You simply make one cut in the the line, install the filter and put a small pipe clamp on either end. They work like a charm, only cost about $2 and allow you to actually see the fuel moving through the system which can be a handy diagnostic tool.

in-line fuel filter.jpg
 

Javelin JD

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
May 4, 2013
Messages
85
Re: in line fuel filter

Thanks everyone, after reading this it begs me to ask more questions. There is already a filter under the hood, presumably between the carbs and something else, it is not a see through one, but one is there. I like the idea of placing one under the hood and out of sight, but should I also install a water seperator. In the meantime, I'll go with the filter until I get more info on the water seperator.
 

Georgesalmon

Lieutenant Commander
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Apr 14, 2012
Messages
1,793
Re: in line fuel filter

A water separator is mostly always a good idea. No matter how good the tank vent is designed and routed there is always a chance of water getting into the fuel tank. Because of changing temperatures you can get condensation in the tank too under certain conditions. The water separator type for marine use will have the particulate filter in it too and no need for any other filter beside the internal one that came in the motor from the manufacturer.
 
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