Jeff Sheler
s/v Windsome
C27TR #6594
Hampton, VA
At 01:17 PM 5/31/2006, you wrote:
Jeff,
There always seems to be a bit of confusion about "primary/secondary" filters.
Think of the travel of the fuel. Primary being the FIRST .. filtering.
Most of us have an filter system (such as a RACOR) mounted on a bulkhead usually in the engine compartment as the first filter. Therefore the "primary"
So it would go something like this..
Fuel Tank... RACOR (primary) filter.... Fuel Pump (depending on engine make)... Secondary filter (usually mounted on engine).. Engine.
A typical RACOR , would have an Inspection bowl with a water drain at the bottom.
If you do get water in the fuel, the water being heavier than fuel, will collect at the bottom of the filter bowl. Then it can be seen and drained.
The Primary is usually Easy to get to so as to make change out quick and less a hassle.
This "add on" is used to be a First Line of Attack in the fuel line.
There are other types of filters that aren't Spin On's or that have water drains.
This is a Common way of doing it but by no means the ONLY way..
Of course there are many engine makes .. and each has it's own particular set up.
BTW....There is a great deal of argument and confusion about whether Fuel Additives are effective.
Most of the Diesel Mechs that I've heard say:
" Additives DON'T work " and that " If you must put in BIOCIDES.. Use only the CORRECT amount"
One diesel guy said " Use Biocides as a Birth control.. NOT as a killer. You'll only have to clean up the Bodies" ... LOL
I personally subscribe to the advice of No Additives except an occasional dose of Biocide.
UW
Ralph Ahseln
- ----- Original Message -----
- From: Jeffery L. Sheler
- To: [email protected]
- Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2006 9:25 AM
- Subject: RE: catalina27-talk: RACOR Filter Problem
- Is the Racor filter/water separator for a diesel system designed to be the primary fuel filter or an add-on? In other words, is it a spin-on filter mounted on the engine, or is it installed in the fuel line somewhere between the tank and the engine? I was under the impression it was the latter. But Ralph's mention of the spin-on filter raised the question in my mind. I've had no water problems to date (am careful to use additives regularly) but I want to take all prudent precautions. Any info would be appreciated.
- Jeff Sheler
- s/v Windsome
- C27TR #6594
- Hampton, VA
