Here are a couple tips for fuel system problems.

If you install a new fuel pump and still are having fuel supply problems, you can use a piece of clear vinyl tubing plumbed in between the fuel pump inlet and the metal line going to the tank to troubleshoot your line for air leaks. Make sure to remove it when you are done and put in some real fuel line. If you see bubbles flowing through it then you need to find the air leak. Often you will not see any fuel leakage at the problem area. I chased my tail for days before I remembered this basic outboard technique and found a bad hose between the gas tank and the metal line on my truck. If you feel real tricky, you can build a setup with a tee so that you can use a vacuum gauge to check for obstructions in the line.

Also on my truck, I did not feel that the puny fuel filter at the carburetor had enough capacity so I installed a water seperating fuel filter kit that is available from any boat dealer. It can hold about a half quart of crap/water and is easily replaceable. I would recommend one for a Mercruiser as they are easier to find replacement elements for. You can get the replacement elements from Napa or Carquest also. Change the element once every couple years so it does not rust through from water inside it. The actual filter element looks like an oil filter. I stuck it on the frame rail under the cab where the metal line has a gap in it and has a short piece of rubber connecting the 2 metal parts. Just be careful not to put it in a hot area or you could get some extra vapor locking problems.

Good Luck
MasterMarine

 

About how much does one of those mercruiser filter setups run and how much are the replacement elements?

 

The filter kit which includes the mounting bracket that the filter screws onto cost $32.25 in 1999. The filter elements were $7.20. That was the price for Genuine Mercruiser parts. There are aftermarket companies such as Sierra which make the same assembly for a bit less. You also have to buy the necessary hose adapter nipples and clamps for you application. I recommended the Mercruiser one because the different manufacturers use different size filters and the threaded pipe in the middle are different sizes.

If you get a mount for Mercruiser filters, then you could get a replacement in just about any town if you needed it. Some other brands you might have problems finding so easily when you need the replacement elements.

If you want the super fancy screw on filters, then you can get a Racor filter that even has a water drain ($50.50 for the element).

If there is a West Marine store in your town, that is probably the place to go to check them out. They generally have pretty good prices and have a huge inventory of parts.

Hope that was not too confusing,
MasterMarine