'03 Mercruiser 3.0l, where's the fuel, water separator?

[Drowned Rat]

Hi guys. I was wondering if someone could tell me what the deal is with this engine, because everone I've spoken to says there is a fuel water separating element (cartridge style) on this engine, but I cannot find it. I trace the fuel line out of the tank and into a canister looking thing, and then out of that to the carb. This "canister" doesn't screw off like the filter I bought would. Am I making sense? It's like a replaceable shell that would hold a filter. Even the manual shows a screw on type filter though?!? What am I missing?

 

[JUSTINTIME]

Re: '03 Mercruiser 3.0l, where's the fuel, water separator?

it has a bowl on it with a drain plug?

 

[Don S]

Re: '03 Mercruiser 3.0l, where's the fuel, water separator?

Yes, you are making sense, unfortunatly, that fuel filter you see is a filter, but not like you think. It's also the fuel pump. It is not a water seperating fuel filter. It only filters out dirt.
If you want a water seperating fuel filter, that is an aftermarket thing. The 3.0L engines didn't have water seperating fuel filters on them like everything else. That is because the 3.0's are also used on entry level boats and to keep the cost down they don't spend the $60 extra bucks to install a filter as OEM.

 

[Drowned Rat]

Re: '03 Mercruiser 3.0l, where's the fuel, water separator?

Okay, thank you Don. Does this filter need cleaning, changing? The manual doesn't mention it, it actually shows a screw on filter in the same place. And this is the factory manual. Where could I find instructions on how to install one? I already have the filter. Thanks for your help.

 

[Don S]

Re: '03 Mercruiser 3.0l, where's the fuel, water separator?

I don't have a clue what you are looking at and trying to describe. It sounds like you are talking about the fuel pump filter, and yes the manual does tell you how to change it, but. It's one of those filters you change if it's plugged up or you feel like it. There is no spec on WHEN to change it. You should have a water seperating fuel filter on any boat, it doesn't matter if it's an I/O or Outboard, it needs one. If you don't have one install one.
Instructions are usually in the kits. If not, who knows what kit you have and how to properly install it.
I can tell you that the use of teflon tape on the fittings is a bad idea, I can also say you need a minimum of 3/8" ID type A1 fuel hose.

 

[Drowned Rat]

Re: '03 Mercruiser 3.0l, where's the fuel, water separator?

alright then. thanks.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: '03 Mercruiser 3.0l, where's the fuel, water separator?

Here is an example of one they sell on iboats:

Fuel Filter

Sierra makes one that is one of the least expensive I have seen. it is Sierra 18-7852-1. It is less than $30.

 

[mrd61]

Re: '03 Mercruiser 3.0l, where's the fuel, water separator?

My Nephews Boat he just bought has a filter in the Pump. It was totally plugged, worst filter I had ever seen. I was surprised the boat ran at all.

 

[Don S]

Re: '03 Mercruiser 3.0l, where's the fuel, water separator?

Why are you replying to a 2 year old thread?