Topic: Fuel filter

[Tempast]

Had an issue with my bike dying for no reason, so I pulled the fuel screen and it was a little nasty but not nearly as much as I thought it would be.
Anyway, should I go with a stock one, or does anyone like a particular inline filter?
Currently no filter as I mangled it getting it out (sadface) but I'm not riding the bike for a few days so I don't see a problem
Also will pull the carbs (AGAIN) tomorrow and adjust them (PROPERLY THIS TIME)

[bjbuchanan]

Just replace the OEM petcock filter, they work pretty well when they aren't broken and ancient. Inline filters can sometimes cause funny running issues. It is hard to predict if the inline filter will give problems so it is better to just get the tank set up proper and forget the filter

[TwoTired]

I've never had reason to doubt the stock tank or fuel tap filter. ...unless they were tampered with and corrupted.

I've made my assessment known many times on this forum, that in lines are a last resort affair when the stock one can't be properly mended.  If double filtering is somehow of benefit, then why not three or six?  That ought to end all carb problems forever more, right? 

Mostly, I don't want to mess up the stock gravity feed fuel flow that inline filters make a challenge to maintain. Yes, I have tried them.

Lastly, they don't self clean, so you just added another routine maintenance check for the added device and you have to guess when its added flow restriction is contributing to a run issue.

It's not often that you can add parts and complexity to a system and still simplify routine operation as well as reliability.


However, if you have abandoned the stock filter for whatever reason, you should certainly include filtration before unleashing unknown purity fuel on pristine carburetor internals.

[Whaleman]

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=136222.0

I really should start making these as kits. After a few of you guys tried this you would never go back. Cost would be maybe $5. Dan

[PeWe]

Clean the tank and do not let dirt enter the tank is one way too.  I have never had any problems due to clogged filter or carbs that the filter should protect being clogged.  No rust inside tank, no problem, right?

If old gasoline will turn into slime clogging the jets is one way to get problem... filter will not help then...

[David B]

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=136222.0

I really should start making these as kits. After a few of you guys tried this you would never go back. Cost would be maybe $5. Dan

Might have to give your idea a try, Dan. I think I'm done with the inline fuel filter thing. They're causing more problems than solving (at least for me).

[Djfob]

I've tried a bunch of inlines. Ones that work the best are the bronze element right angle. Can get them from 4into1.com

Don't have a choice but to run inlines since I use a barb fitting right off the gas tank

[Whaleman]

Anyone who tries my system will never go back to inlines or just hope the screen filters out stuff. Junk that can clog slow jets goes right through the screen. Dan

[TwoTired]

Junk that can clog slow jets goes right through the screen.

Glad you are happy with your "invention".  But, let's not gild the lilly.

The stock screen filters 100% of the fuel passing through it.  And, it blocks particle sizes smaller than 0.010" (even smaller, I believe) and the slow jet's orifice isn't any smaller than 0.015".  If a particle passes through the stock filter, it will also pass through the slow jet orifice without blockage.

If your stock tank or fuel tap filter allows larger particles, it's a broken mechanism in need of repair, not a design change. 


I wonder how many realize that the carb's fuel bowl has unfiltered pathways to outside airborne dust particles via the "venting" and overflow tubing.  It is the vents hose length that offers a statistical filter for such particles, meaning it is unlikely to pass particles large enough to cause blockage.  But, it is not a 100% filter mechanism.  Further, the venting system does not normally pass much volume of unfiltered air, as what the tubes contain is primarily in a static state, due to pressure equalization (which is it primary and necessary purpose).

[Deltarider]

If you must have an inlinefilter, the ones with paper inside filter best. But if your stock tankfilter is OK, you won't need any other filters.

[CoachDoc]

I've tried a bunch of inlines. Ones that work the best are the bronze element right angle. Can get them from 4into1.com

Don't have a choice but to run inlines since I use a barb fitting right off the gas tank

I agree 100% with using these right angle  filters. It eliminates the need for a down/up loop in the fuel line, and your carb bowls will remain pristine. FYI I use them in addition to the stock petcock screen! which I believe can let too much fine particulate matter pass for my liking.

[HondaMan]

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=136222.0

I really should start making these as kits. After a few of you guys tried this you would never go back. Cost would be maybe $5. Dan

Yep, that one you sent me held back the rust from the tank, which got through the screen. (It was a real fluffy rust, fine-grained stuff).