Water in fuel is one of the most common causes of engine trouble on boats. A fuel filter water separator stops water and dirt before they reach your injectors or carburetor. This guide explains how to pick the right Frimarine filter, bowl and bracket for your outboard or inboard engine.
Quick answer: which Frimarine filter do I need?
- Outboard engines with 3/8" fuel lines: FFWS2003 (11/16" thread). Bracket: FFWSUBRK.
- Inboard engines / 1" thread filter heads: FFWS2007 (1" thread). Bracket: FFWSUBRS.
- Both filters use the same FFWSCOBW water collecting bowl.
- Want everything in one box? The FFWS1003 complete system (3/8", outboard) or FFWS1007 complete system (3/4", inboard) include filter, bowl and bracket.
Compare the options
| Model | What's included | Thread | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| FFWS2003 | Replacement filter | 11/16" | Outboard, 3/8" fittings |
| FFWS2007 | Replacement filter | 1" | Inboard / larger heads |
| FFWS0003 | Filter FFWS2003 + bowl FFWSCOBW | 11/16" | Upgrade when you already have a bracket |
| FFWS0007 | Filter FFWS2007 + bowl FFWSCOBW | 1" | Upgrade when you already have a bracket |
| FFWS1003 | Filter + bowl + bracket FFWSUBRK | 11/16" | New install, outboard (3/8") |
| FFWS1007 | Filter + bowl + bracket FFWSUBRS | 1" | New install, inboard (3/4") |
Performance specs
- Removes 99% of free water (per SAE test procedures).
- 98% efficient at 10 microns.
- High-efficiency media with maximum surface area for high dirt-holding capacity.
- Low-swell seals and powder-coated canister for durability.
- CE and RoHS certified.
Are Frimarine brackets compatible with other brands?
Yes. The universal brackets fit filter assemblies that use 11/16" (FFWSUBRK) or 1" (FFWSUBRS) threads with 3/8" ports, including setups from Racor, Quicksilver, Mercury, Yamaha, Moeller, Mallory, Sierra and Marpac.
How to change a spin-on fuel filter
- Drain the bowl.
- Remove the filter from the head with a strap wrench.
- Remove the bowl from the old filter.
- Lubricate the new bowl O-ring.
- Tighten the bowl onto the new filter.
- Fill with clean fuel.
- Lubricate the new filter seal.
- Tighten firmly by hand, then run the engine and check for leaks.
The FFWSCOBW bowl is reusable. Drain water by loosening the drain screw, then retighten it. Inspect the bowl and sealing surfaces at every service. If you are not familiar with fuel system installation, use a professional installer.
Frequently asked questions
What does a 10 micron fuel filter mean?
It captures contaminants down to 10 microns in size. Frimarine filters are rated 98% efficient at 10 microns and remove 99% of free water.
Do I need the bowl and bracket to use the FFWS2003 or FFWS2007?
Yes. The filters are designed to be used with the FFWSCOBW water collecting bowl and the matching bracket (FFWSUBRK for FFWS2003, FFWSUBRS for FFWS2007). The complete systems FFWS1003 and FFWS1007 include all three.
Is the Frimarine filter a replacement for Racor?
The FFWS2003 is sold as a direct replacement for Racor spin-on filters with 11/16" threads, and the universal brackets fit Racor filter heads with matching threads.
Where do Frimarine orders ship from?
From Miramar, Florida. Orders placed before 12 PM ET ship the same business day.
Can I buy Frimarine in a store?
Yes. See our Find a Store page for authorized marine stores in Florida and Venezuela.