Diesel fuel/water filter recommendation

[nestorph]

I need to install a fuel/water filter in my Islander 30 Bahama. I checked out the Racor filters but am at a loss as to which model to choose as they vary considerably in price. I have a Yanmar 2GMF engine. The tank holds 20 gallons and the fuel line is 5/16" in diameter. Not sure what other information one might need for a recommendation.
Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[SG]

http://www.boatstore.com/diesel-spin-on-series-filter-separator-clear-ports-1-4-a.html

I think I'd install this one if I were you. I don't know if you need a heat shield, that would be a different unit.

Racor 120As Filter Assy-Diesel 15 Gph 2M
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RACOR 120AS FILTER ASSY-DIESEL 15 GPH 2M
Mfg. Name : Racor
Mfg. PN : 120AS
SKU : 62-120AS
Brand

$74.23

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Product Description
Designed with the marine engine in mind. Compact in size, they utilize a flexible mounting head for remote or on engine mounting. Ideal for tight engine compartments. Filtration options provide for a variety of micron ratings and ensure virtually 100% removal of water and solid contaminants for diesel engines.
Additional Information
condition new
Bulk part number N/A
UPC Code 706672000231
SKU 62-120AS
Mfg PN 120AS
Weight 3.3330
Mfg. Name Racor​

 

[jssailem]

You can likely choose a small less expensive unit. The 500 unit has merit for consideration. It opens from the top. It permits change with minimal air in the system. Can be changed in various sea states. Likely more than needed for your engine. Look for engineering that allows you to change filter with minimal problems.

 

[LeslieTroyer]

I got the 120 series for myM25. You can buy bigger filters if the small ones plug up to frequently

 

[Stu Jackson]

You have two choices:

1. More expensive housing, much less expensive filters (i.e., Racor 500 filters)
2. Less expensive housing, more expensive filters (i.e., Racor 24 series)

Most boats have the latter, John's right, try the former.

In all cases, the capacity of the filters will far exceed the actual use. That is, the filters are all over-qualified for use in our recreational boats.

If you have an electric fuel pump, air doesn't matter, just run the pump to bleed the air out. If you don't have one, get one.

 

[Ron20324]

http://www.boatstore.com/diesel-spin-on-series-filter-separator-clear-ports-1-4-a.html. I think I'd install this one if I were you. I don't know if you need a heat shield, that would be a different unit.

Racor 120As Filter Assy-Diesel 15 Gph 2M

That is what I have right here on my desk, ready to install tomorrow if I can handle the 90+ temps.

 

[nestorph]

Based on a West Marine write up, it seems like getting a USCG approved filter is necessary if you want insurance these days. In my ideal scenario, I would like a USCG-approved with built in primer. In reading some of the product literature, I got the impression that the primer bulb can be retrofitted onto some other Racor filters. Has anyone had any experience with those?

 

[Ron20324]

... I got the impression that the primer bulb can be retrofitted onto some other Racor filters. ...QUOTE]

Anything with screw threads can be adapted to anything else with screw threads.

 

[Gunni]

For your boat all you need is a Racor 110 and a 10mic filter element. If you plan to place the filter in the engine bay it will need to be fire rated. Which puts those plastic bowl filters on the no-list.

 

[NYSail]

For your boat all you need is a Racor 110 and a 10mic filter element. If you plan to place the filter in the engine bay it will need to be fire rated. Which puts those plastic bowl filters on the no-list.

Unless you have the metal bowel......

 

[jssailem]

Yes NYSail... That is the 500M by Racor. The M is for the metal (bowl) heat shield that is supposed to lengthen the time it takes to melt the plastic see through bowl in an engine fire.

 

[Gunni]

Unless you have the metal bowel......

NY, you don't have a metal bowl, you have a heat shield. Different.

 

[nestorph]

NY, you don't have a metal bowl, you have a heat shield. Different.

He said metal bowel. That's an entirely different category... ;-)

 

[NYSail]

Yea..... had a transplant. The bowel is so much easier to keep clean now....

 

[NYSail]

Yes NYSail... That is the 500M by Racor. The M is for the metal (bowl) heat shield that is supposed to lengthen the time it takes to melt the plastic see through bowl in an engine fire.

It will give me an additional 2 minutes!

 

[Terry Cox]

Our 1991 boat came equipped with these Racor brand fuel filters; one for the main engine and one for the Genset. Easy to check and simple to replace the cartridge. We have never had a problem with them. Normally will top of the bowl with fuel before reinstalling after replacing the cartridge. http://www.defender.com/product3.js...ssembly&path=-1|311|2349059|2837510&id=133942

 

[nestorph]

Wow. Talk about an embarrassment of riches with replies! I decided to call up a Racor specialist who ended up recommending model Racor 230RMAM30. It has a built-in primer and is in a metal housing. For $122, it also won't break the bank.

 

[Gunni]

I don't think you will get the model 230 metal bowl upgrade for that price. You will get a plastic filter bowl which is not CG rated for mounting inside your engine bay. The Racor110 linked by Terry Cox comes with a full-metal bowl, uses less expensive filters, and at 15gpm is more than capable of supplying a small sailboat auxiliary.

 

[nestorph]

I don't think you will get the model 230 metal bowl upgrade for that price. You will get a plastic filter bowl which is not CG rated for mounting inside your engine bay. The Racor110 linked by Terry Cox comes with a full-metal bowl, uses less expensive filters, and at 15gpm is more than capable of supplying a small sailboat auxiliary.

What am I missing here? I'm guessing it doesn't include the filter.

http://racorstore.com/racor-230rmam30-ff-ws-assembly-marine.html

 

[Gunni]

That is the standard 230 with plastic filter bowl, comes with one filter canister. THIS is the Racor 230 with metal bowl, suitable for engine room install.