Installation Guide
Fuel-Water Separating Filters
- New Maintenance Essentials Fuel/Water Separating Filter
- Oil pan or container
- Clean rags or towels
- Gloves (optional)
- Filter Wrench (optional)
- Fuel-safe lubricant (optional)
1. Prepare the Engine
- Ensure the engine is turned off and the key is removed from the ignition.
- Shut off the fuel supply valve (if equipped) or disconnect the fuel line to prevent fuel from flowing during replacement.
- Place a small container or drain pan beneath the filter to catch any spilled fuel.
2. Remove the Old Filter
- Use your hands or a filter wrench to turn the filter counterclockwise and remove it. Be prepared for some fuel to spill.
- Pour any fuel from the old filter into your container for proper disposal.
- Inspect the filter mount for dirt or debris, and clean it with a rag if necessary.
3. Prepare the New Filter
- Remove the new filter from its packaging.
- Apply a thin layer of clean fuel or fuel-safe lubricant to the rubber gasket on the new filter. This ensures a proper seal and makes future removal easier.
4. Install the New Filter
- Remove the new filter from its packaging.
- Apply a thin layer of clean fuel or fuel-safe lubricant to the rubber gasket on the new filter. This ensures a proper seal and makes future removal easier.
5. Check for Leaks
- Reconnect the fuel line or turn the fuel supply valve back on.
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes while inspecting the filter and surrounding area for leaks.
- Tighten the filter slightly if you notice any fuel seepage.
6. Dispose of the Old Filter
- Place the old filter and any spilled fuel in a sealed container and take it to a recycling facility or hazardous waste center.
Oil Filters
- New Maintenance Essentials Oil Filter
- Oil drain pan
- Fresh oil
- Clean rags or paper towels
- Funnel
- Gloves (optional)
- Maintenance Essentials Oil Filter Wrench (optional)
1. Prepare the Outboard
- Tilt the outboard to its upright position.
- Allow the engine to cool down if it was recently in use.
2. Drain the Engine Oil
- Locate the oil drain plug (check your owner’s manual for the exact location; it’s typically on the lower section of the engine).
- Position the oil drain pan under the drain plug.
- Remove the plug using a socket wrench, and allow the oil to drain completely.
- Once the oil stops dripping, reinstall the drain plug securely.
3. Locate the Oil Filter
- The oil filter is usually on the side of the engine block. Consult your outboard’s manual if unsure of its location.
4. Remove the Old Oil Filter
- Place a rag or towel beneath the oil filter to catch any oil drips.
- Use an oil filter wrench if the filter is too tight to remove by hand. Turn it counterclockwise to unscrew and remove the filter.
- Dispose of the old filter properly.
5. Prepare the New Oil Filter
- Apply a thin layer of fresh oil to the rubber gasket on the new filter. This helps ensure a proper seal and makes it easier to remove during the next replacement.
6. Install the New Oil Filter
- Screw the new filter onto the mount by hand. Once the gasket makes contact with the engine, tighten the filter an additional 3/4 turn. Avoid overtightening.
7. Refill the Engine with Oil
- Remove the oil filler cap and insert a funnel.
- Pour in the correct amount and type of oil as specified in your outboard's manual.
- Replace the filler cap.
8. Check for Leaks
- Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes.
- Inspect the area around the oil filter and drain plug for any leaks.
- Turn off the engine and allow the oil to settle for a few minutes, then check the oil level using the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.
9. Clean Up & Dispose
- Safely dispose of the used oil and filter. Many automotive stores or marinas offer recycling services for used oil.
- Wipe down any spilled oil and properly store all tools and supplies.
Primary Fuel Filters
- New Maintenance Essentials Primary Fuel Filter
- Container or bag for used fuel filter
- Clean rags
- Gloves (optional)
- Marine grease (optional)
1. Inspect the Fuel Filter
- Look closely at the small black float in the filter. If it’s on the bottom, that indicates no water in the fuel, which is a good sign.
2. Remove the Water Sensor Plug
- Gently pull to remove the plug.
3. Prepare the Housing for Filter Removal
- Manually loosen the fuel filter housing from the top cap. It’s best not to use a wrench on the top cover, as it could crack the housing.
- Be cautious when removing the housing to make sure that an o-ring does not stick inside the housing. If not seated properly when you put it back, it could cause a fuel leak.
4. Drain the Fuel
- Drain fuel from the fuel filter housing before removing the filter completely. Examining the drained contents can help you check for any water in the fuel. Clear fuel without droplets is an indicator that everything is in good shape.
5. Check the Fuel Type
- You can tell the fuel type by the color of the fuel element. Green indicates non-ethanol fuel, while a brown color suggests a heavy content of ethanol.
6. Remove the Old Fuel Filter
- Carefully remove the old fuel filter.
7. Replace the Fuel Filter
- Install a new fuel filter into the housing.
8. Reattach the Housing
- Thread the housing back onto the top cover. If you use ethanol fuel, threading the new fuel filter back on might be more difficult as the ethanol can soak into the plastic threads, making it harder to tighten. Using a bit of marine grease can ease this process.
9. Reconnect the Water Sensor Plug
- Remember to plug the water sensor back in. A working sensor is crucial as it alerts you if water gets into the system, which could cause the engine to misfire or vibrate erratically.



