[C320-list] Seeking tip on fuel filter

[John Morrison]

I change both fuel filters every 2 years, whether they need it or not. They prob don’t need it as the secondary filter seems quite white. If nothing else it keeps me current on how to do this and forces a visual inspection. After all getting old and very forgetful!!
JEM
1999#574

Sent from my iPhone

> On Sep 21, 2018, at 8:33 AM, Jack Brennan <jackbrennan at bellsouth.net> wrote:
> 
> 
> Hi all:
> 
> A final word and warning to everyone who has one of these Racor 215 fuel filters and hasn't changed it in years.
> 
> I managed to get the bowl off the old cartridge, but nothing -- not PB Blaster, pipe wrenches, a vice, etc. -- could budge the filter from the aluminum top of the assembly.
> 
> My educated guess is that the aluminum top and the steel or aluminum (?) insides of the filter welded themselves together over the years. If I did manage to free them, I would probably distort the cap and end up with chronic leaks anyway.
> 
> A key clue is that the printing is very faded on the fuel filter. It has to be at least 10 years old, and my guess would be more than that. Regular filter changes would prevent the welding from becoming serious.
> 
> Another interesting note is that it was a 2 micron filter. Two different Yanmar guys told me this is way too fine. Not only would it clog quickly if you have any dirt at all in the tank, but it's difficult for the lift pump to pull diesel through it, they said.
> 
> The Yanmar filter on the engine is 10 microns. That's also what I ordered for the new primary filter.
> 
> So, be warned if you haven't changed the fuel filters in years. It isn't going to come off easy when it clogs, so you might as well go through this ordeal at the dock instead of at sea.
> 
> 
> Jack Brennan
> Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
> Tierra Verde, Fl.
> Dolphin Cruising Club of Tampa Bay
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
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