Is it the Fuel Filter?

Hello,

I took my boat out today and used the built-in Fuel tank for the first time (typically I used containers). It ran fine for about 2 minutes then the engine wouldn't turn over, I knew it was a gas issue because the engine sounded like it was out of gas, but the gas line was connected. I ended up using the containers to get going, and everything went fine.

Later while out in the water I hooked up the internal to the engine again... It ran great for about 15 minutes then did the same thing, as if the engine was out of gas. So I reconnected the containers for the rest of the trip.

I don't think the gas filter has been changed in ages, it's the one that was on when I bought the boat. Could this be the problem, and to change it do oyu simply screw (turn) it off and replace with new one, or does it involve taking the whole system down???

Thanks

V-20 200 Merc. (94)

[chumbucket]

Spin on a new filter cartridge and check your tank vent to be sure it's clear.

CB:

Tank Vent????

what is this and where do I find it?

thanks

[reelapeelin]

Mudda the vent allows air into the tank as the motor pulls gas out of it...it's like puttin' your finger over the end of a straw with water in it...it won't come out until you remove your finger and allow air into the other end...vent will be a smaller hose that runs to the top of the tank from a fitting outside you hull somewhere...do you open a vent on top of your portable tanks?... ;) :)...

I went back and looked at the pictures you posted of your boat...there is something that MIGHT be the vent fitting under the rub-rail on the port side...that's the left if you're at the wheel and facing the bow...look under the rub-rail and tell us what that is... :)...

[macojoe]

could be filter, vent, ball ???

First change the filter

if that don't work then check the vents, blow some air in there, from a compressor, spiders like to make a nest in there and they can screw things up easy!!

Check tank for water!! The vents under the rub rail are pron to allow water to get in!!

I moved my vent location so they would not spilll fuel any more and water never gets in now!!

If the ball is old it might have some cracks in it that does not allow it to maintain its hard on :o I mean it won't stay hard and you lose fuel

Last of all fuel pump, but if you are running portable tanks with no problem I am sure thats fine!!

Easy fix just have to see which problem you have.

My bet is water or bad gas, caused by the vents.

Muddasink,
From one newbie to another...I'm not sure of your vintage, but my 1974 has saddle tanks and I am having similar problems....just getting ready to get into more indepth investigation after 2 frustrating years.

What year is yours and I'll see if I find anything of note that might be worth passing on.

Mine seems to "stumble" not completely shut down..i'm guessing vacum leak somewhere along the line. Do you shift from portable to built in via 2 way switch valve or do you disconnect from one to the other??

[reelapeelin]

Rover...if your '74 has vents BELOW the rub-rail, I'd bet THAT'S your problem...my '74 had same issues til I relocated vent to ABOVE the rub-rail...no more water in the gas causing the "stumble" you refer to... ;)...

You can see new location of vent here just aft of the cleat

this will SOLVE the "stumbles"... ;D...

Hey Rap, that boat looks nice and shiney, you must've waxed it.... hehehe ;D

[Franco]

Hey Rap, I like the cleat there. For spring lines?Or an extra place to secure your Norton Snagger?

[reelapeelin]

Spring lines mostly, but you've a KEEN eye for Norton Snagger attachment points!! Works well for both... ;D...