Fuel water separator required?

[bleonard]

I have a 1990 Johnson 125HP outboard that is currently running off a 12 gal Atwood portable tank on the deck (under a seat actually). I'm using the portable tank until I can tackle the leaking below deck tank.

My question is whether I ought to run a fuel water separator? Right now I'm plumbed directly from the tank to the inline filter right before the VRO.

And if I use a fuel water separator, any suggestion on an appropriate model/make of the filter? I'm running premix if that makes any difference.

Appreciate any advice.

 

[emdsapmgr]

The water separators are esp helpful on larger boats that have a built-in fuel tank and get fuel pumped in from a marine fuel dock. These smaller tanks usually get fuel dumped in from a portable tank that was just filled at a gas station. I run fuel from a gas station and have not had any issues with water in the fuel. I did add a Mercury Marine fuel water separator kit. Inexpensive, the kit included a filter, and the screw on aluminum head, which can be mounted in the boat. You will need to adapt some brass hose barbs and secure it under the deck. Merc part # 35-802893t-about $14.00. 25 micron filtration. You can purchase similar filters at most marine dealerships.

 

[F_R]

While it is true that a large amount of water will prevent it from running, a small amount will go right on through unnoticed. So, it really is your choice.

 

[bleonard]

Thanks for the input. I'm going to leave it as is for the moment. Too many other projects first.

 

[tazrig]

Although a water separator is usually a good idea, with only a 12 gallon tank unless you have 2 gallons of water (not likely) as stated earlier you'll just burn through whatever is in there. Especially with a 2 stroke.

 

[Crosbyman]

if worried you can probably add an additive to handle any humidity that accumulated inside the tank .