Access to Racor filter on 9.2A

[indimini]

Hi all - I am curious how people get to their Racor filter. On our 9.2A, the filter is mounted at the bottom of the starboard cockpit locker. I can't get my fat bottom to squeeze comfortably into the space to access the filter. Am I missing something obvious re: access?

Barring a diet, I am thinking I just need to bite the bullet and pay the yard to drain and replace the filter as part of going back into the water.

 

[woodster]

why not relocate it higher up or forward so you can access it from the front when you open up the engine box

 

[indimini]

Woodster, that's definitely a possibility, but would that require a pump between the fuel tank and the filter to account for the head height? I get the impression that it's current location is to take advantage of a gravity feed. I have no real experience with fuel systems, so I'm not sure what would be required to move it.

 

[woodster]

It should be ok i moved mine and have no problems with it. you would be surprised at how much work those little pumps can do

 

[indimini]

Spent some quality time with the mechanic at the yard today and learned how to actually get to the filter. He was incredibly helpful - basically he served as tutor for all things engine-related. (e.g. I'd never changed a secondary fuel filter and wasn't clear on the bleeding process). Great news is I can probably keep the filter where it is now and I have the added benefit of knowing my engine had a thorough once-over by an experienced mechanic.