Air filter instead of spark aresrtor?

[JeePing]

Any one put in an actual air filter on 3.0 mercruiser in place the spark aresror? Is there a downside to using air filter?
Rebuilt mercarb the other day and it wasn’t all that clean. Seems air filter would be a good option.

 

[JohnB5656]

Might not be approved for marine use. Fire hazard.

 

[MSCH]

Any one put in an actual air filter on 3.0 mercruiser in place the spark aresror? Is there a downside to using air filter?
Rebuilt mercarb the other day and it wasn’t all that clean. Seems air filter would be a good option.

the point of the spark arrestor is just that..
boats just dont run enough hours in their life and the hours they do run are in such a clean environment that the spark arrestor is the better choice..

nothing like a bilge with some gas fumes in it and one spark to ruin your whole day.

 

[Donald]

Only use USCG approved flame arrestor on a boat. You can clean it in the dishwasher.

 

[thastinger]

Any one put in an actual air filter on 3.0 mercruiser in place the spark aresror? Is there a downside to using air filter?
Rebuilt mercarb the other day and it wasn’t all that clean. Seems air filter would be a good option.

I think K&N makes a replacement filter that is USCG approved for use as a spark arrestor.

 

[RTexasF]

It's called a backfire flame arrestor. Substituting a non-Coast Guard approved "air cleaner" can result in fire and explosion. Not the best idea...