Fuel filter replacement, keeping gas out of bilge?

Mightychan

Member
Oct 8, 2016
157
Panama City FL
Boat Info
2005 DA 420, AB Dink
Engines
Cummins 6CTA
I am going to replace the spin on filters on my 350 MPI's. The filters sit low in the boat, and I assume that as soon as I unscrew the filter, all of the gas in the line is going to drain out into the bilge. I would like to avoid that. I have considered putting some disposable diapers down there. There isn't much room to get a small bucket in place. Any other suggestions for keeping the bilge gasoline-free? Thanks, Chan
 
Also, pour it out into a clear glass jar and let it settle for a little while. This way you'll see how much water was captured and give you some idea about the health of your gas.

-Kevin
 
I know the newer motors were different but I can tell you our 98 350’s barely drip when the filter is unscrewed. No pressure buildup at all. I will say it takes 2-4 starts before they won’t stall, I have to assume it’s air purge.
 
Gas vapours are bad. One marina we stop at going north had a boat blow up because they started it after fueling without running the blower
Turn off all devices in your boat and run the blower before, during and after. I put down absorbent pads under it and wash the area after. Wear cotton cloths and long sleeve shirt and pants. Synthetic cloths can cause sparks some times.
 
Gas won't pour out. If you had just run the engine, just let it set for about 10 minutes to be safe. I sometimes use the cut-off bottom of an AF bottle, like what GFC mentioned, just to catch any little spillage. But, honestly, I don't even do that all that often as the filter is never full. Truth be told, a few ounces of gas spilling just helps you clean up the bilge. Just have a couple rags with you to wipe up. It's just not enough, compared to the size of the bilge, to be an issue. Plus, you can run the blowers. I'm not saying don't pay attention to gas around the bilge - you absolutely should - but if you take your time and use common sense you'll be safe.
 
I use a plastic bag as a "glove" when I replace mine. Barely any gas comes out..maybe a few teaspoons each engine.

As mentioned above my MPI's also take a few "starts and stalls" before it works all of the air out of the new filters. It can be a bit unsettling the first time...
 
Same here, a rag is all you need, what spills out can be wiped up quickly and mostly evaporates. Now if somehow you drop the filter and it rolls back into the bowels of the bilge you might need a little more cleanup. (ask me how do I know this). Also, as suggested, pour the contents of the filter into a jar and let it settle overnight - it will give you a good idea of the condition of your fuel. This is how I realized the ethanol fuel I was running was wreaking havoc on my fuel lines - the fuel poured out of the filter looked like it had pepper sprinkled in it! If it has water in it, it will separate out also.
 
Just did my 95 300 Sundancer with 5 had water separating filters. None leaked a drop, which surprises me.
 

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