How do you clean the seawater strainer?

[Bob Kanzler]

I am a new owner of an O'Day 272 with a question. How do you clean the seawater strainer? Any help would be appreciated.

 

[J.B. Dyer]

Describe it!

What does it look like? The same question applies to your other post.

 

[Bob Kanzler]

Description

This is for a Westerbeke 10Two Diesel. The strainer bottom is round, about 4” in diameter. The top is round, about 3” in diameter. The top has three knobs on it. I will get pictures of both this weekend. I have tried lightly turning both the top and the bottom. I did not want to break anything. Neither one turned.

 

[J.B. Dyer]

More than likely

The top screws off and there is a basket on the inside that can be pulled out and cleaned. If it looks like the knobs screw out and they are stuck, try putting a little penetrating oil, WD 40 or something like that and let them set for a while. Possibly, the whole top unscrews and the knobs are just there to get a grip on. Those things are not supposed to be screwed down that tight.What type of fuel filter do you have, cannister or cartridge?

 

[J.B. Dyer]

Web Site

Here's a web site for you. Go to the Westerbeke parts catalog area and you will find a blow up of the 10-2. If you have the original system, there is a picture of the fuel system including the filter.

 

[Bob Kanzler]

Thanks for the help.

Over the weekend I got to the boat. I closed the seacock, and used channel locks to gently turn the top of the strainer. Off it came. It was clean, but I am glad I know how to clean it. Thanks again.