Fuel Filter/Water Separator
 

Since my 95 Talari 4.3LX died in the middle of the lake Tuesday with no fuel at all getting into carb, I have ordered a new electric fuel pump and a new filter/separator. I have not taken the old ones off yet.

I can see a number on the filter/separator that is puzzling me. It is 3226 I cannot find any fuel filter/water separator with any number close to that. That four digit number is often an "oil filter" number. Is it possible a previous owner could make the mistake of putting an oil filter where the fuel filter should be? They look a lot alike but not sure the seal and threads would match.

If it is possible and that is what they did could it have done any damage?

The filter in there also has the number 99-86483-C but I have not been able to find anything with that number on Google or on marine part sites.

Re: Fuel Filter/Water Separator
 

That's a NAPA filter number and it is a fuel filter/water separator type. See the description on the side (2nd image). It looks like it's intended for automotive use but it seems like it could be used for marine use. Might not be rust preventive though if in a salt water environment. I doubt it would cause any damage.



https://www.napaonline.com/en/p/FIL3226

Re: Fuel Filter/Water Separator
 

I simply use a Sierra 10 micron water/fuel separator filter, part# 18-7944 available at most marine parts vendors.

Re: Fuel Filter/Water Separator
 

He was inquiring about the filter on the engine now. He already has a correct one on order.

Re: Fuel Filter/Water Separator
 

Thanks! Have the Quicksilver filter and will be changing out as soon as my new pump arrives.

Re: Fuel Filter/Water Separator
 

Just switched to these this season. So far I like it. Was running Wix without issues. Just found the Sierra 10 micron for a better price.

Re: Fuel Filter/Water Separator
 

Got the new fuel pump in yesterday and a new fuel filter/water separator (Quicksilver). Hooked up muffs and water hose and it started right off after about 15 seconds of cranking to get primed. Ran smoother than before. Restarted after a few minutes and it started instantly and it purred. Can't wait to get it back in the water.

On the bench the old pump ran and had some pressure but not sure how strong. When the old filter came off I dumped it in a white bucket and there was a lot of fine black material settled in bottom.

It is an easy replacement job. By the way, I found the pump at Summit Racing on line and the total bill with shipping was $67.00. Will see how long it goes but I am optimistic.

The more I have thought about the day it died I think it may have been my fault. It was 97 degrees and very humid. Boat has been setting in sun for a couple of hours before launch. It was a long way to get past the no wake buoys before I began to throttle up. Error ---- I did not run the blowers. I believe the engine compartment got so hot I had a "vaporlock" or at least something similar.

With no inboard engine experience I am not certain when to run blowers and how long to run them. Is there a rule of thumb on running blowers?

Appreciate all the replies.

Smiling with my repair ---- at least for now.

Re: Fuel Filter/Water Separator
 

Run the blower(s) before you start up the boat and also when you are sitting & idling or just putt-putting along. Some people also run them for about 30 secs or so once they shut down but I dont really see that as necessary as long as you make a habit of running them before you start up.

Re: Fuel Filter/Water Separator
 

Makes sense. Will do.

Re: Fuel Filter/Water Separator
 

Yes, I have found Wix filters from Oreilly's to be pretty solid. No issues with them.

Re: Fuel Filter/Water Separator
 

The blower is to remove any fuel fumes that may of built up in engine area..these can explode when engine started. Run blower 3 to 5 min before starting or lift rear cover to vent any fumes. It has nothing to do with temp.it all about not having fumes build up. I have my the depth finder/water temp sensor glued to bottom of inside the boat under engine..on hot day engine compartment usually 89 to 115 degrees when running. Inboard/car type engines usually run between 140 and 160 depending on setup.. should not of been vapor lock.. if pump is dry from sitting months or years and 100% dry or ran tank out of gas they may not prime engine until fuel is pushed up pump to get it wet again.

Re: Fuel Filter/Water Separator
 

Wix filters are good...but definitely expensive. Oreilly Auto Parts usually stocks them.