Fuel Filters?

[Gary]

I have a H35 with Racor filter (120)with a see-thru bowl and want to know if that filter is Coast Guard appoved. In searching the archives and West Marine catalog, it appears that a diesel inboard should have a metal bowl to be legal. I asked the local West Marine store and they said diesel does not have to have a metal bowl. The store did not even have a filter with a metal bowl......but it could be ordered.The brochure with a Racor filter says that for marine applications a metal bowl is required to meet CG approval.Where can I get a definitive answer....is there a CG publication or does Racor have a certification of some type?

 

[Steve Dion]

Deisel is different.

Gary:I "think" that the metal bowls apply to GASOLINE engines only. I think you will find that "most" of the high quality filters for the diesels use a see through bowl. This allows you to see the water and sediment that may be in your fuel.

 

[Rex Noel]

Not required

Diesel engines do not require the metal bowl. These are required by the Coast Guard only for gasoline engines.

 

[Les]

Metal Bowl

Gary,I remember reading in the brochure I received when I upgraded my Racor that a metal bowl was required for a commercial vessel. One that is for hire. I know that it didn't apply to me and other recreational sailors. Les

 

[Don Alexander]

Filter in Engine Bay

Gary,My info is that the USCG require a metal bowl if the filter is located in the engine bay.This seems logical and I have followed this in the past - but then I am a Brit sailing on the Solent so the USCG are unlikely to get to me.Why not just ask them?Regards

 

[Gary Dawson]

Metal bowls

I sent e-mails to the Coast Guard and Racor regarding the use of see-thru vs metal bowls for pleasure sailboat with diesel engine and filter located in engine compartment.I never heard from the USCG but the following reply was received from Racor (a division of Parker)If your vessel is used for commercial purposed or for hire, the CG requires you have a fuel filter that is UL Listed.A METAL BOWL IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR PLEASURE CRAFT VESSEL.I hope that clarifies the fuel filter bowl issue<grin>.