should i have a fuel water seperator?

[nofear1132]

In my larson I have a 3.0 L 4 merc. When I bought it it had no fuel filter or anything just straight line from tank to pump.....I immediatly put a new inline moeller fuel filter just to have something there.....now I was wondering should I have a whole fuel filter assembly on it also should I have a fuel water seperator on it....I can easily install both these with plenty of room and all for under 75. But was wondering will it restrict fuel to the motor,cut down on economy...do nothing...or help lots in the long run , I'm lost here please help! Any help/comments is appreciated thanks guys

 

[Don S]

Re: should i have a fuel water seperator?

Absolutely install one.
With todays efuels, it's ability to clean older tanks, and desire to collect water, it's almost a requirement.
One other thing you really need to do is to empty the old element and inspect the contents, whenever you are replacing the element. It's the only way you will know if things are getting worse or staying the same.

 

[nofear1132]

Re: should i have a fuel water seperator?

Old element being the old filters????? I have absolutly none if that's wat ur talking about I will be sure to do so in the future when changing, thanks a ton!

 

[Fishermark]

Re: should i have a fuel water seperator?

I immediatly put a new inline moeller fuel filter just to have something there.

Not sure what filter you put on, but an inline filter is a no-no according to coast guard regs. At least a typical "cut the fuel line and install a filter" type. Your new water separator will act as a filter as well.

Also be sure to get the type of water separator with the metal screw on cannister. The see-through type is for outboards.

This is the typical inline type of filter sometimes used that is against the regs:

 

[EMC 1810SS]

Re: should i have a fuel water seperator?

Wow, they still make those? Those are not even safe for under the hood of a car!

Definetly add a Water Seperating fuel filter.

 

[sschefer]

Re: should i have a fuel water seperator?

Install either a Racor or a Quicsilver canister style fuel/water separating filter. This has become mandatory now that Ethanol is in almost all fuels. You don't need it in a car because the tanks are now pressurized to keep moisture out but in a boat, the tanks are vented and the Ethanol attracts the moisture like a danged magnet.

 

[Bondo]

Re: should i have a fuel water seperator?

Install either a Racor or a Quicsilver canister style fuel/water separating filter.

Ayuh,... I'd go with the Mercruiser type, as they can be bought at about Any street corner...