Atomic Four Fuel Line Routing

[Rob Rich]

I have a 1979 Catalina 27 with an Atomic 4. I noticed that the inbound fuel line runs from a water separating fuel filter, under the engine, and up to the carb area. Problem is that the fuel line runs too close to the Transmission lever assembly, and the bottom end of the arm assembly bumps into the line when the transmission is put into reverse. Anyone out there with this problem and/or a solution? Advice will be greatly appreciated!Rob

 

[Kevin McGrath]

cat 27 Atomic 4

I had a similar situation with mine. What I did was install an electric fuel pump and filter on the Starboard side of the engine compartment and routed the fuel line across the front of the engine mounting bed to the Carb. it worked great. The electric fuel pump is one of the best reliability upgrades that you can make to the atomic 4.

 

[Rob Rich]

Thanks!

Kevin - Thanks for the response. I had another owner recommend the electric fuel pump as well. My curent fuel config works fantastic, so I am not going to change the pump, but I think I will re-route that line in front of the engine. Also - adjusted the nut on the shaft in front of the stuffing box. Fixed the leak. My surveyor was on my dock, stuck his head in and helped me do it. It helps to have someone who knows what they are doing. I feel better about working on the box, and I think I might tackle the issue myself with some of the teflon stuffing. P.S. - Is that Northport as in Long Island? I graduated from Stony Brook!

 

[Kevin McGrath]

Atomic 4 fuel pump

The mechanical fuel pump diaphram can fail causing gas to enter the crankcase and dilute the oil. Regardless of how well the mechanical pump works, I would change it. and Yes it is Northport, New York. I owned my 27 for twelve years and moved up to a C36. the atomic four is a great engine. Since there is no oil filter, I changed the oil at least twice per season. oil is cheap and changing it is the best insurance.

 

[Rob Rich]

Diaphragm

Kevin - Now that (fuel in oil) is something to make me change my mind. I am very oil concious, and I as well as the previous owner (and the owner before him) change it twice a year religiously for the very reason you stated. Could you point me toward the manufacturer you bought your pump from? A fellow C27 owner on my dock did the same thing for his, but I don't see him too often. Thanks again for your time and insight - and have a bagel for me (you can't find one worth a damn down here). Best Regards, Rob Rich

 

[Kevin McGrath]

Atomic 4 Electric fuel pump

Foley Marine sells the fuel pump. They are located in Massachusetts. If you ever need a water pump, Depco Marine in Clearwater Florida has the best prices on the Oberdorfer pumps. They make a high output pump that really improves cooling if you have a problem. It is manufactured by AC. You should be able to find both of them on the internet. My direct Email is kmcgrat2@optonline.net