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In-Line Fuel Filter Question

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christopher425

Member
Hey All, I'm working on an '87 Mariner 45hp (4 cyl) and have a question re: my in-line fuel filter. I've got an OEM filter and I typically remove my fuel line after use via quick disconnect from my tanks (just for safety purposes). Is it normal for the fuel filter to lose all the fuel in it within a day of just sitting? It will hold full for about a day, then I'll go back to check and it will be bone dry. My fuel filter is oriented horizontally and it is above my fuel filter and just about even with my top carb. I know the filter itself and the hoses are not leaking and I cannot locate any fuel around the fuel pump. I just rebuilt the carbs and set everything to spec with the float/needle, etc.

My issue is that I replaced a carb at the end of last summer due to a eaten up valve seat. Boat ran the best it ever has right before storage. I ran the engine until it stalled to remove as much fuel in carbs as possible for winter storage. I get it out this year and it won't even idle. Having the hardest time and it just doesn't make sense. Fuel is good and clean. Connections are solid. Nothing has changed really. Plugs are wet and firing. After work I'm going to test the fuel pump for any leaks. Aside from the fuel pump and carbs, I'm kind of scratching my head. I really don't believe it's an ignition problem. Went through all of that last year and everything checked out. Any advice would help. Thanks!
 
Its normal with my engines to have fuel return to the tank while sitting after a day's outing with the tank normally sitting below the engines usage area....carbs.....a gravity thing and the port(s) in the carbs venturi allow an air inlet for allowing gravity to accomplish this task. Your removing fuel from the carb for storage is the right thing to do.

I have had a lot of problems with the current EPA mandated fuel line and especially the squeeze bulb. Before I got excited about an engine problem, I'd take a close look at the interconnecting fuel line and bulb to the tank. I got tired of all the crap and just put a 12volt, 3 psi, fuel pump in place of the (!@#$%^&*()@#$%^&*) bulb and haven't had any more problems. Ebay has them for about 25 bucks.....lots less than what that stupid fuel line/bulb costs. Problem solved.....also if you are worrying about fuel pump problems, this solves any of those as the engine gets fuel pressure, not has to suck it out of the tank!!!!!
 
Thanks for the reply Texmark. Update: I took both carbs off and cleaned them really well. There was water in bottom carb bowl. I believe I got a bad batch of gas at the station. I always go ethanol free, but I suppose you can't always eliminate every variable. I have thoroughly cleaned both carbs and will flush the lines before using fresh fuel. I plan to report my findings back once it stops raining in my neck of the woods. Been wet for mostly the past week.
 
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