PCM FCC Filter Change story

[79bombi]

I decided to winterize my 2000 Sport Nautique myself this year as opposed to the Marina. I decided I should change the PCM FCC (fuel control cell) fuel filter. I had read this would be tough. Initial attempts could not get it to budge an inch. After talking to the friendly folks at White Lake Marine where I purchased my filter I decided to unbolt it from the fuel hoses and engine bracket. Broke two filter wrenches with pipes attached to them. Got desperate and put two 24 inch pipe wrenchs on it attached to two 200 pound men. We almost gave up but it finally broke free with minimal scarring on the FCC. Tight was an understatement. Boat has around 120 hours on it and the filter looked pretty good. I am not sure I would do this again knowing what I know now.

79bombi

[wakejunky]

RE: PCM FCC Filter Change story

Another option is to take it out and put it in a vise, thread in a couple of bolts into the mounting holes and then use a pry bar between the two bolts to open it up.
The next time will definitely be easier.

Chris

[NCH2oSki]

RE: PCM FCC Filter Change story

I agree with WakeJunky, the next time will be no problem.

[Miljack]

RE: PCM FCC Filter Change story

don't forget to lube up the oring on the top of the bowl!
I used Chris' method for removing my FCC for (apparently) the first time. It was VERY tight! I believe I had a 3' long crow bar to pry on the bolts into the top of that thing! And it was still a PULL to get it loose.
The newer units now use a machined ring surface with a clamp to hold them together, MUCH better idea PCM.

Jack

[SquamInboards]

RE: PCM FCC Filter Change story

Yeah, too bad a new FCC will run you $600+

[CHassmann]

RE: PCM FCC Filter Change story

Just curious, how much was the filter from White Lake? Did you receive the PN discount?
Thanks!

[NautiqueJeff]

RE: PCM FCC Filter Change story

I have heard stories of dealers sending the FCC to CC to have the factory open them up because they were so tight that the dealer couldn't even get them off. I know the one on my '03 210 was really tight too.

[jos]

RE: PCM FCC Filter Change story

Whats important?
Renew the O-ring every time.
Grease lube the thread and the o-ring.
Torque of the bowl should be minimal, O-ring does the job. Overtight will give you trouble at disassembly.

Re-use of the O-ring will give you trouble, it can split, as came out when i purchased my boat.

[79bombi]

Re: RE: PCM FCC Filter Change story

Just curious, how much was the filter from White Lake? Did you receive the PN discount?
Thanks!

I think it was around $37 and they did give me the 10% discount. No one in my lake had one in stock.

79Bombi

[CHassmann]

RE: Re: RE: PCM FCC Filter Change story

I just found it for $33.95 on Discount Inboard Marine - http://www.skidim.com/prodinfo.asp?number=RP080026

[boatech]

RE: Re: RE: PCM FCC Filter Change story

MAKE SURE YOU CHECK THE CLEAR HOSE FOR CRACKS. they sell a hose kit for inside the fcc filter if you have never put this hose kit in i sugggest you do next time you change the filter it will save you some headaches down the road for sure.

[79bombi]

Re: RE: Re: RE: PCM FCC Filter Change story

I just found it for $33.95 on Discount Inboard Marine - http://www.skidim.com/prodinfo.asp?number=RP080026

With the discount the price was about the same but being able to get someone on the phone from White Lake Marine who was very knowledgeable was worth more than the 10% discount.

[79bombi]

Re: RE: Re: RE: PCM FCC Filter Change story

MAKE SURE YOU CHECK THE CLEAR HOSE FOR CRACKS. they sell a hose kit for inside the fcc filter if you have never put this hose kit in i sugggest you do next time you change the filter it will save you some headaches down the road for sure.

My hose was black but it looked to be in good shape.

79bombi