Should I add an air filter to my boat?

[SecondMonkey]

I have an old Mercury inline 6 150hp outboard motor on my boat. I just spent a *LOT* of money replacing the powerhead, and I want it to last a long, long time. The thing has 3 carbs but no air filters, like most outboards.

Do you think it would be beneficial to add an air filter of some kind? I know the air should be cleaner over water...but that doesn't mean there isn't anything floating around...

 

[RTexasF]

I doubt it would be worth the time and trouble. Those carbs are a bear to synchronize. Filters, especially a homemade concotion, could easily throw them off. It's possible they may have to be rejetted or at least readjusted due to the restriction.

That's an oldie you have there, haven't seen one in decades.

 

[BuzzCut]

Unless the boat sinks it is unlikely for anything "floating" around to get ingested. Leave it alone IMO.

 

[cmhj]

Having run a marina for 20 years I can say without reservation, leave it stock.

 

[biomed_eng_2000]

Yes, add an air filter if you want to protect your engine and reduce wear. As you said, there are always particles in the air.

If you believe K&N:

"One of boating’s most common misconceptions is that marine air is clean air, so air filters are unnecessary. The truth is that marine engines need filtration protection every bit as much as their landlubber cousins. Once airborne, impurities affect air quality both near and off-shore – especially in fresh water environments. And most boats carry their own generous supply of stow-away dust and dirt tracked aboard on clothing, gear and muddy shoes. It’s completely unaffected by moisture, because of the unique oiled cotton gauze and epoxy-coated wire screen construction. So it’s the perfect choice for every marine engine application – from ski boats to fishing boats to racers to day cruisers. "

From: http://www.knfilters.com/marine/flamearrester.htm