Screen in gas tank?

[Sphe]

When I was cleaning out my gas tank, I needed to take the drainage plug out. Along came with it a small (3-4 inches tall?) screen thingy. What's this for, and is it important? And how much is it?

[isofast]

Screens tank sump particulates prior to your fuel pump chewing on them...I think they are worth the $24.00 most vendors charge for them some vendors charge a little more some less.

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First Place AACA Show Winner 350SL July 2003
I love low mile Mercedes.
1969 280 4spd Papyrus White

[Sphe]

"Screens tank sump particulates prior to your fuel pump chewing on them"?? Sorry, could you rephrase that? I didn't understand

[Sphe]

Also... so this thing is mandatory to replace? Is there a place where I can easily pick one up, or do i have to special order it?
Also, when I install it, it just pops up in there or is there a special way?

[J. Huber]

I think Isofast said the screen keeps unwanted "ca-ca" from getting to fuel pump... In other words, yes very important. Often it is a good place to check when you have symptoms of poor fuel delivery (ie hard warm starts & lousy performance.)

James
63 230SL

[n/a]

You can get these from dealer or any of the parts guys. When you take it out, check the opening for rust. The fuel passes through the screen and is siphoned from a gap located in the opening of this drain. Pretty clever, but a great place for rust and stuff to build up blocking the fuel line. A dental pic works wonders.

Shawn Rock
Philly, PA USA
1968 280 SL 4 speed

[LFrank]

Isn't there also a paper filter located between the FI and the gas tank? I think I once pulled one off under the front of the car when I was (!) a novice, trying to change the oil filter (and yes, it did have quite a bit of debris in there).

LFrank
Washington DC
65 230 sl - auto
DB334/Hellblau

[n/a]

Yes there is a fuel filter under the hood. I also installed a filter between the tank and the fuel pump. Not standard, but does provide a little more protection for the very expensive pump.

Speaking of paper filters, I heard a great expression once. While sanding the antifouling paint off the bottom of a sailboat, one of the crusty old yard guys commented on the paper dust mask I was wearing. He said, "Son, git yerself a real resporator. That paper mask is 'bout as good as a paper condom." I bought a good resporator that day!

Shawn Rock
Philly, PA USA
1968 280 SL 4 speed