Installing a brand new 496 ho with new fuel filter, so fuel system is essentially dry. Engine will not prime itself to continue running. Engine stumbles but will not start. Can start with ether, but fuel pump will not prime the system. I know on 502's there was an air valve to bleed the air out of the fuel system. Is there one on the 496. Help needed please

My 496 ran completly dry the other day, two tanks with sending wires crossed (long story), and finally had to fill reservoir up, replace filter and cap, then worked great. I guess pumps need a little help to get the fuel flowing.

there should be a schrader type valve on the fuel system for connecting in a fuel gauge. you can push in on it with a screw driver and bleed the air out that way.

fireman 1594 is correct. The new CoolFuel all in one system on the newer 496's must be primed if dry or run out of fuel as both pumps are in the cannister.
Remove the fuel water seperator filter top (three screws) and refill with fuel, re-install the filter and top and tighten. be careful not to spill a lot of fuel in bilge and dry it out if you do before restarting the engine with your bilge blower too! Gas fumes in an enclosed space are EXPLOSIVE!! Restart the engine, let it properly clear the air out of the fuel injection system with a clean idle and re-check for any fuel leaks!
Moral of this story, do not run on dry tanks or low fuel in tanks as this is bad for the fuel filters, screens and pumps as it will suck up crud and debris from the bottom of the tanks and it can also leave you powerless and drifting at inopertune bad times and places! KNOW YOUR BOAT! Its your responsibility as the skipper!

Best Regards,
Ray @ Raylar