How many fuel filters? - The Hull Truth

mrd5601 · 06-19-2007, 12:29 PM

I have twin merc 250 sw carb engines, single 200 gal tank with daul fuel feeds.

I’m reorganizing the compartment that houses the fuel filters, trim tab pump, bait pump, wash down pump, 2 bilge pumps, and three thru hull fittings. With all the associated hoses and wiring it’s crowed.

My question is. Can I use a single filter with dual feeds instead of two separate filters? What problems can this cause? Can one filter supply enough flow for two engines.
Thanks

prockvoan · 06-19-2007, 12:48 PM

Chances are you will not have enough fuel flow.Only one line will feed that filter.

mrd5601 · 06-19-2007, 01:06 PM

I could be wrong, but the filter housing I looked at had two inlets and two outlets. Howerver the flow will still be restricted by the one filter.

marinerjoe · 06-19-2007, 01:13 PM

Most of them come with two inlets and two outlets. That gives you flexibility when plumbing the filter. Don't put yourself through the problems you'll experience by trying to run two big engines off one filter. IMHO

59022 · 06-19-2007, 05:22 PM

You need two separate filters

mbb · 06-19-2007, 07:27 PM

Quit being cheap and install 2 racors. When you get into rough seas and the crud in the tank starts getting stirred up and you plug your one filter and are dead in the water, then wouldnt you prefer that one engine keep running so you can keep the bow to the seas while you change the filters?

rbutterworth · 06-19-2007, 07:29 PM

Have one filter problem, lose both engines....not worth it....., what's the purpose of twins?...., not being rude, but the chain is only as strong as it's weakest link....two filters..., two water separators.....double the pleasure.

KeyPineSavage · 06-20-2007, 12:15 AM

Sure you can use a single filter, with dual outlets. As to flow, it is just a matter of rating and specs. You will need to select a proper filter setup to meet the needs of your 250's, with an overhead percentage. I think several companies make a single filter with sufficient flow to handle these motors.

Since you are running both motors on a single tank now, there is not too much if any downside to a single filter, compared to duals (as long as you carry a spare cartridge and wrench to change it.) With multiple tanks, obviously a different story.

About "being cheap," guy said space was his problem, not money.

About "getting stirred up" in tank and plugging filter. With his present setup if it gets stirred up enough to plug one filter, it will most likely plug both.