Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Do I Need A Fuel/Water Separator For A 15HP
Posted by thegage on 04/06/10 - 11:33 AM
#1
I've got an '88 Yamaha 2-stroke 15 that I use on my '69 13-foot Sport. On the final outing last season it was having trouble reaching full throttle. I turned it over to my boat shop for a check-up. Prior to looking at it one guy at the shop said it was probably fuel gelling in the carbs from ethanol, while a second guy said he wasn't so sure. It was the second guy who fixed it up, and said it was varnish in the carbs (not surprising since the engine sat for a couple of years without use) and so he rebuilt them. I asked him if I needed a fuel/water separator and he opined that he didn't think they really made that much difference. The first guy, who also happens to own the shop, recommended that to address the "gelling problem" I should buy a new four-stroke. Admittedly he has a dog in this hunt, but there is a lot of discussion on the board here about separators, so I was wondering if I really need one or not.
John K.
Posted by brooks89 on 04/06/10 - 1:31 PM
#2
If you are using a small portable tank buying good gas from a reputable source and using it in a timely manner you shouldn't have problems with water in your fuel, so don't bother. Have fun!
Posted by DWinter on 04/07/10 - 3:38 AM
#3
I concur, It's not necessary.
Posted by wannabe on 04/07/10 - 9:10 AM
#4
I disconnect the fuel line and run the gas out each time I take my little tender out.
Posted by gigem on 04/07/10 - 12:29 PM
#5
thegage wrote:
The first guy, who also happens to own the shop, recommended that to address the "gelling problem" I should buy a new four-stroke.
That's hilarious! :)
Posted by DWinter on 04/07/10 - 1:29 PM
#6
Just as a reminder to all concerned, running the fuel out of a carbed motor is fine, and on a little motor not a bad idea, just don't do it to a fuel injected motor. You can destroy an injector by running it dry.
Posted by HarleyFXDL on 04/07/10 - 6:16 PM
#7
gigem wrote:
thegage wrote:
The first guy, who also happens to own the shop, recommended that to address the "gelling problem" I should buy a new four-stroke.
That's hilarious! :)
This is the kind of guy that gives the marine industry a bad name. Let me guess, this "first guy" just happens to sell new 4-stroke engines and probably has a kid in college or is planning on installing a new pool in his back yard.
Posted by MW on 04/08/10 - 2:38 AM
#8
I use a small portable 6 gal. tank, I use about 3 gal. per outing. A spalsh of "Sea foam" or "Carbon Guard" goes in the tank every time that I add fuel. No problems to report. For my application and use, I see no reason to add a filter, and with my luck, I would just be inviting an air leak.