Mechanical fuel systems:Fuel filters and water separators

Fuel filters and water separators

Most engines incorporate three stages of filtration—a screen at the tank and paper-element primary and secondary filters. Filters are rated by the size of particle trapped: a typical installation would employ a 30-micron primary filter and a secondary

of between 10 and 2 microns. A water separator is often built into the primary filter (Fig. 5-40), which also may include a connection for fuel return and an electric heater to prevent fuel gelling and waxing in cold climates.

When a filter element is changed, entrapped air must be bled as described in Chapter 4.