Adding a fuel filter on the boat. Location?

[camper4lyfe]

Hey thughes , this might be right up your alley. I'm looking to add a fuel filter/water separator to our boat (87 Four Winns with the infamous Merc 165 4cyl (460/470)). It develops fuel issues from time to time, and the filter is a cheap step in trying to sort out why.

My biggest question, and I'm hoping you or someone, may have some insight into any location requirements, as far as how far from the fuel pump I can install it, since the engine compartment is pretty tight.

[thughes]

As close to pump as possible (to reduce chance of vapor lock) and higher than the tank outlet (to prevent siphoning should a line rupture). If memory serves, those were Carter pumps with an integrated serviceable filter right on the pump. There are two different style filter elements: one was a porous stone type thing, the other was a paper cartridge.Don't forget to service that filter!

Also, all built-in fuel tanks are equipped with an anti-siphon valve.....most usually a spring-loaded check ball in the barb fitting on the fuel tank. The downside to these is that they act as a flow restriction which can cause vapor lock in really hot engine compartments. Take a look at that too.

[camper4lyfe]

As close to pump as possible (to reduce chance of vapor lock) and higher than the tank outlet (to prevent siphoning should a line rupture). If memory serves, those were Carter pumps with an integrated serviceable filter right on the pump. There are two different style filter elements: one was a porous stone type thing, the other was a paper cartridge.Don't forget to service that filter!

Also, all built-in fuel tanks are equipped with an anti-siphon valve.....most usually a spring-loaded check ball in the barb fitting on the fuel tank. The downside to these is that they act as a flow restriction which can cause vapor lock in really hot engine compartments. Take a look at that too.

The filter is just one project that I have going on with the boat (new shift cables is the big job this winter), so I'll take a closer look in the coming months.

[Pissed Off Patriot]

Also, all built-in fuel tanks are equipped with an anti-siphon valve.....most usually a spring-loaded check ball in the barb fitting on the fuel tank. The downside to these is that they act as a flow restriction which can cause vapor lock in really hot engine compartments. Take a look at that too.

Interesting, and good to know.

I'm a newb when it comes to boats with motors, but that is something I'm considering buying here in Florida, as I live on the Alligator Chain of Lakes here in Florida now.

What would be a relatively cheap reliable (used) boat/motor combo to get for a little fishing and general boating in this hot climate down here?

[thughes]

Interesting, and good to know.

I'm a newb when it comes to boats with motors, but that is something I'm considering buying here in Florida, as I live on the Alligator Chain of Lakes here in Florida now.

What would be a relatively cheap reliable (used) boat/motor combo to get for a little fishing and general boating in this hot climate down here?

I've been out of the biz too long to answer that: When I left, a majority of outboards motors were carbureted 2 strokes......it's a whole different world now with fuel injection and 4 strokes. Best to ask around locally and observe what others are using.