Ananda is the first boat we have owned that has a diesel engine. The two sailboats we had previously owned had outboard motors so there was a dramatic difference and a steep learning curve for me. Fortunately, we are in a marina with many seasoned sailors who own sailboats with diesel engines – lots of good experience and advice available at a small cost (a cold beer or a glass of rum is common currency in our marina:) ). Plus, I found a great marine mechanic who lives in the area and knows diesels.

In 2010 I replaced the original mechanical fuel pump and primary fuel filter systems to resolve some maintenance and reliability problems.

This new primary filter and electric fuel pump system works incredibly well. I have been in all kinds of rough water conditions and it has never let me down. The new Racor 1000MA fuel filter housing and filter cartridge cost about $370 (replacement filter cartridge costs about $9 – the “old” filter cartridge cost about $8). The new electric fuel pump cost about $90 (designed for diesel truck and marine engines and is available at most auto parts stores).

Lots of other details about this improvement project are posted on the website (please click here to go to the page.)