Should I change this? And what is it?

L

Lorenzo Paunache

New Member
Jul 20, 2020
12
Boat Info
1989 Searay 280 Sundancer
Engines
2x 350 Mercruisers
Hi. I have a 1989 Searay 280 Sundancer, with twin 350 mercs. Port side ok. Starboard fires up ok, then, once I pop it in gear, 2 minutes later dies. Changed water separator. Same issue. Noticed that the filter was only 1/3 full, while the port side one was completely full. Followed the line back to the tank, and noticed this other filter?? So, the line from the tank goes to this, then to water separator, then pump, then carb. First of all, what is this (see pic). Second, it just doesn't make sense! Idiling is ok, but once in gear, it white getting gas?? Need help. Much appreciated.
 

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Looks like a Fram automotive racing filter, got one on one of my old muscle cars. Maybe that's clogged
 
Had one of those on my old Correct Craft - it’s a Fram water separating filter, black part screws off. Take it off clean it out and change the filter if it’s still in there.
 
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Is it a spin off?? It doesn't seem to be moving, should I insist?
 
IMG_0642.JPG

The fitting on the bottom opens and allows you to drain the fuel into a can so when you remove the black part gas does not spill into your bilge. There most likely is a dirty paper filter inside the container that needs replacing. If memory serves, is does unscrew from the lid. But I would notbet the farm on that recollection.
 
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This is a similar filter on a newer boat but does the same thing.
IMG_3563.JPG
 
Yep, both engines have the same setup. And it don't look like add-ons. The issue that I'm having is that the port side runs just fine! I had another Searay Sundancer before, and I didn't have these extra filters. Ran just fine for 11 years!
 
Right, also not a fan of multiple filters. Get it opened up it might be packed with crap. The spin on's are 10 micron, who knows what that one is. Sound like your running out of gas. If that one is clean it could be a weak pump or crap in the carb. Could be those ancient fuel lines disintegrating on the insides
 
It is a pre filter, it's original equipment and is designed to work WITH the soin in fine filter down stream. NAPA, CarQuest etc all carry these filter elements. They are quick and easy to change, should be a yearly maint. Item. I keep spares onboard just in case. If its clogged, chances are your finer filter downstream is in need of a change also. May want to also change the little filter in the carb inlet while you're at it too. I'd do both engines especially if you have a common tank.
 
Just got done fighting with the on my 310 Amberjack. If you have ez access you can change filters. Mine were a pain to access so I deleted with a 3/8 x 3/8 NPT union for about $3. Use the union to connect the hoses.
 
I've taken them both out and fired right up. Old technology, useless filters, mechanic said a while back.
 
SCORPIO said:
It is a pre filter, it's original equipment and is designed to work WITH the soin in fine filter down stream. NAPA, CarQuest etc all carry these filter elements. They are quick and easy to change, should be a yearly maint. Item. I keep spares onboard just in case. If its clogged, chances are your finer filter downstream is in need of a change also. May want to also change the little filter in the carb inlet while you're at it too. I'd do both engines especially if you have a common tank.
Click to expand...
can you give me a NAPA or carquest filter number? can't find it
 
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