Just wondering if you've seen any thing in your winter-to-spring maintenance. My 496 fuel filters were very funky from last year - the main cartridge had ~60% coverage of black streaks and the puck filter below it had lots of trash - no change in my fuel stops. After changing them I notice a small increase in rpm. No other issues I've seen, Anyone else?

Funny I actually had the same discoloration. I really did not think anything about it. I have not run the boat since the change.

Keith, last summer was the first year for N.J. no issues for my motor, time will tell.

I read some on Merc's web page about the effects last year. The biggest issue, as I understand, is corrosion in older boats. The fuel will absorb water if it hangs around too long.
I ran my out tank as low as I could last Fall and I'll fill my tank and change the fuel filter before firing this spring. I would also suggest changing fuel filters more often than in the past.

I haven't noticed any issues. BTW, yesterday was my first run of the year. She seems to be running good.

t-isalnds - not sure if the streaking means anything, like Gary said, time will tell.

Gary - hope you get out there soon - I know you'll be tearing up the water asap, your new dockage sounds great.

Pat, I agree with more frequent filter changes - will prob go to ~20 hours for changes.

Rick - the fuel tanks in the SB are aluminum, aren't they?

Got my external steering installed, but hte stock merc hp line blew off - seems they had some bad crimps and they are taking care of me. Lots of ATF in the bilge just means lots of corrosion protection, right?

20-25 hours sounds good.
I'll now change the fuel filter when ever I change the oil filter.
Going to keep a spare in a ziplock on board too.

The same thing happened to me, what a mess. Merc replaced the hose but they also gave me $200 merc bucks to help with the clean up and ease the pain a little.

i agree with pat..keep a spare, or two..for not-being-stranded-sake...i usually use 1 filter up until mid july( 20hrs)...then, before our BI trip change them...(can't be sure of non-sunoco 93 gas elsewhere.)..then at winter lay up (after 20 more), change again..
i think, ethanol or not, a combination of marvels, stp water remover, octane boost, and fuel stabilizer still work wonders....i was also told that there is this "blue" stuff that stabilizes the fuel chemistry...never used it, but my dad's mechanic likes the idea..
c

This is what I have come up with from talking to different people concerning Running Ethanol, 1 stay away from it if you can, carb guys, go up 1 to 2 jet sizes, also it will eat the nylon/clear site windows in the bowls. It will absorb water. I drive to the next County to get gas that does not require the mix.

Eddie