 optimax fuel pump problems/ water in gas?
I have a 1999 150 optimax. I have replaced the low pressure fuel pump twice in the past month (expensive little buggers). When the first one went it was not a total surprise since it was nine years old. The second one went after about 5 hours of use. I've replace all the fuel lines (because the local marina "thought" maybe air was getting in causing the pumps to overheat). Now, after the marina returned the second failed pump (5 hrs) to the pump manufacturer they are saying there are signs of rust indicating water in the gas. The motor, when the pump is working runs fine. Can the motor run ok with water in the gas?
I also removed the fuel filters and noticed the section inside of the gasket (where the gas sits) has some rust. I have (2) inline water/fuel filters/seperators. I've looked at the gas and I don't see any water and when I dumped the filters I didn't really see any water. The marina says that the water could be in the ethanol. I cut open both filters and there were almost no particles on the filters.
My questions are:
1. Will the motor run ok with water in the gas? If there is enough water to rust the fuel filter and fuel pump would the engine run ok? I do get an occaisional skip.
2. Should the metal part of the fuel filter (within the gasket) be totally rust free?
Any insight you can provide is greatly appreciated.
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