Adding an aftermarket in-line fuel filter???

[GKW57]

I keep having problems with crap getting into both my 98 GTI fuel systems and clogging up the carb.
The dealer charges about $250 to $300 to clean everything out. That sucks.
I am going to clean the one that has gotten re-plugged myself (thanks to help on this forum).
I am thinking about adding an in-line filter to catch the crap before it gets to the carb.
A friend, and the dealer, expressed concern that the added flow restriction may starve the carb.
What are your experiences?
Anyone done this? Had any starvation problems? Recommendations on filter?
Any other tidbits of info.
Thanks to all.

 

[bigbaldbob]

I dont think you will have any problems. just get a filter thats not to large. make sure the filter fittings are the proper size for your fuel line. The dealer may be concerned if you put on a filter he will not be able to charge you $300 to clean your carbs anymore.

What exactly is getting in to your fuel system thats clogging the carb? I personally would clean the hole system then install a filter.

 

[JJinSC]

:agree: Stop treating the symptoms and fix the problem. You will be much more satisfied in the end and so will your engine.

 

[GKW57]

I agree about fixing the problem and I intend to.
But I would like to get some use out of them while I do.

I bought them used in winter 06.
During the summer of 07, both of them got clogged fuel systems. I chalked that up to the previous owner (I have talked with him since and he never had this problem)The dealer removed the fuel systems, including the tanks, cleaned the carbs, etc to the tune of $250 to $300 each.
In 2008 I put maybe 10 hours on each ($4/gal gas sucks).
Early this summer, one of them clogged up again.
I have never put lake gas in them. I buy gas from major retailers (BP, Chevron, etc). I buy mid-grade. I use plastic gas cans that I clean out.
I have been fueling my boat this way for 19 years and never had a fuel problem.
Beats me what the problem is, but better fuel filtration will ease the symptoms.

The particles that accumulate in the bug-screen/water separator under the front storage tray are 1 to 2 mm, dark brown, and disintegrate to nothing when you rub them between your fingers. Any ideas?

 

[cbjrumble]

I bet you still have the grey fuel lines, replace them.

Also I have heard if you put in a inline fuel filter to not use a paper base one because if water gets in your fuel the paper will absorb the water and restrict the gas from passing. I do not know the truth to this though.

 

[GKW57]

The only fuel lines I have looked at are the ones going into and out of the bug-screen/water separator under the from tray. Those hoses are black. Are there others that would be grey, or are they all the same color?

Interesting thought about the paper filter. I'll research that.

 

[cbjrumble]

If those are black maybe they have been replaced everywhere.

You could just have black crap in the bottom of your fuel tank from the gas break down after sitting.

Also cleaning the carb is so easy, just be careful and its really not hard at all. You shouldn't pay so much for it, just becareful and do it yourself.

 

[GKW57]

Thanks to the info I have gleaned from this forum, I have made up my mind to clean the carb myself.
I was just going to add the fuel filter as an added guard. As easy as cleaning the carb may be, changing an in-line fuel filter is easier.
Thanks for the help.

 

[bigbaldbob]

When you clean the filters on the carb tell us what kind of trash you find as well as what color it is.

 

[GKW57]

Will do.
I'm curious also.
Thanks