Why is it important to replace your fuel pump strainer regularly, even
though your fuel pump is functioning perfectly fine? The fuel
pump strainer (also known as pre-filter or fuel sock) is a fuel system's
first line of defence against fuel system contamination; including dirt,
dust, or other fine particles found in regular pump
gasoline.
Gasoline also has a tendency to varnish over time,
leaving a thick filmy layer over everything inside the tank--from the fuel
pump internals to the tank walls, and especially the strainer /
pre-filter. A varnished or clogged strainer restricts flow, forcing
the fuel pump to work harder, which affects pump longevity. Without a
doubt, fuel tank varnishing and strainer clogging are the #1 causes of fuel
pump failure.
For Powersports applications where the motor is not
run every single day like an automotive vehicle, fuel pump strainers should
be replaced every year, as inexpensive preventative maintenance.
Additionally, if the motor will not be used for any extended period
of time, we highly recommend adding a bottle of fuel stabilizer to the tank
and running the motor for a few minutes to circulate the fuel stabilizer
throughout the system.
