Groco fuel filters vs Racor or other

[Richard19068]

Hi,

I have a Groco GF-375 fuel filter which came with the boat and seems to perform fine as far as I can tell. Some people have suggested I replace it with a Racor but I don't know if that is really necssary. I can't find much information about the Groco and was wondering if anyone here had any opinions on them. It's for diesel fuel.

http://www.groco.net/SVC-MAN-07/Sec5/PDF/GF-250-375.pdf

Thanks for the input.

 

[sailaway78]

Why Change

If your present filter has a water separator, and it works then why change it. I have Wix filters, which are much larger than most Racors, elements are available from NAPA for less money and easier to find. If the elements are hard to find, then I would surely consider changing out, to avoid getting caught off in some out of the way place without. But other than that, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

 

[RichH]

This Groco 'filter' element is a proprietary design which must be bought from them. Groco doesnt make filters, they make strainers. In all probability they buy the filter element and then attach that plastic 'hat' to make it a single open ended filter - that only fits in 'their' housing.
This filter is mounted on the engine, right?
Id look for a new filter and housing .... one that uses STANDARD industrial ("4463 type") which uses a 2-119 internal O ring to make the connection to the housing. Then you will have 'hundreds' of 'manufacturers' to choose from. 15µM is the typical rating for a *pleated resin bonded technical paper* filter used for 'last chance' engine (mounted) filters on small diesels.

If this filter is NOT engine mounted .... go with a Racor, most common for the marine industry.

 

[RAD]

Seems to be a heavy duty filter assembly and like others have said if it's not broke don't fix it.....filter elements are available at WM
I like my Racor because it has a translucent bowl to see if water is present and the model I have also has a pump to help prime

 

[kenn]

As long as you keep up regular maintenance and checks, and you keep a stock of filter elements if they're hard to get, the Groco unit will be fine.

 

[Richard19068]

Thanks for the replys.

The unit is bulk head mounted, ahead of the on engine filter.

One advantage of changing to the Racor would be the clear bowl so you can see what's going on with the fuel but then I saw that ABYC standards require (suggest) a metal bowl for installations in enclosed engine compartments. How many people go ahead and use the plastic bowl in enclosed engine compartments?

They sell the element on this web site and others so they are easy to get. So, since I haven't heard any dire problems with the Groco I guess I'll keep it.

Thanks again