Changing The Inline Fuel Filter In Your Ural Motorcycle

Whether you need to change an inline fuel filter on your Ural motorcycle depends on personal preference. Some people believe that the screen on the petcock is good enough to filter out debris, while others prefer to use an inline fuel filter as cheap insurance against fuel starvation. Inline fuel filters are inexpensive, long-lasting, and easy to replace, but they can also be seen as one more thing to break or fail. If you decide to install an inline fuel filter, it's mainly relevant to older motorcycles with carburettors rather than injection.

The benefits of using an inline fuel filter

An inline fuel filter is a small but essential component of motorcycle maintenance. It plays a critical role in the performance and longevity of your motorcycle. Here are the key benefits of using an inline fuel filter:

Prevent Clogs and Engine Damage:

Dirt, rust, debris, and other impurities can accumulate in your motorcycle's fuel tank over time. An inline fuel filter acts as a barrier, catching these impurities before they enter your engine. This helps prevent clogs in your fuel system, reducing the risk of engine damage and safety hazards.

Improve Fuel Efficiency:

When your engine has to compensate for impurities in the fuel system, it burns more fuel than necessary. By filtering out these impurities, an inline fuel filter helps your motorcycle run more efficiently. This saves you money on gas and enhances your overall riding experience.

Prolong Engine Life:

By reducing the amount of impurities that reach your engine, an inline fuel filter helps to reduce engine wear and tear. This, in turn, can prolong the life of your engine and its components.

Easy Diagnostics and Maintenance:

A clear inline fuel filter can serve as a built-in diagnostic tool, providing visual indications of fuel starvation, vacuum line failure, petcock failure, or fuel flow issues. Additionally, inline fuel filters are easy to replace, ensuring that your fuel system remains in top shape.

Peace of Mind:

Knowing that your motorcycle's fuel system is protected from impurities gives you peace of mind. Inline fuel filters are cheap insurance against potential engine issues. They are especially recommended for older motorcycles, where corrosion, flakes of paint, and other debris are more likely to be present in the fuel tank.

When choosing an inline fuel filter, it's important to consider compatibility, flow rate, micron rating, and durability. Selecting the right filter for your motorcycle's make and model will ensure optimal performance and protection for your engine.

How to install an inline fuel filter

Installing an inline fuel filter on a motorcycle is a straightforward process that can be done by following these steps:

Step 1: Assess the Need

Before installing an inline fuel filter, it is important to determine if your motorcycle truly needs one. Modern motorcycles, especially those with fuel injection, may not require an additional fuel filter as they often have an adequate fuel filter built-in. However, for older motorcycles with carburettors, installing an inline fuel filter can be beneficial, especially if the fuel tank is prone to rust or if the bike is used in dirty or off-road environments where debris may get into the fuel tank.

Step 2: Choose the Right Filter

Selecting the appropriate inline fuel filter is crucial. Ensure that the filter you choose is compatible with your motorcycle's fuel system and that it can handle the fuel flow rate. It is also essential to consider the filter's micron rating, which indicates the size of particles it can capture. A finer mesh will capture smaller particles but may restrict fuel flow more.

Step 3: Locate the Fuel Line

The fuel line is typically located between the fuel tank and the carburettor or fuel injection system. It is usually made of rubber or plastic and can be identified by tracing the fuel hose from the tank to the engine. Once you have located the fuel line, clean the area around it to ensure that no dirt or debris enters the fuel system during the installation process.

Step 4: Cut the Fuel Line

Using a sharp knife or tube cutter, carefully cut the fuel line in a straight line. It is important to make a clean cut to ensure a tight and secure connection when the inline fuel filter is installed. Make sure to have a container and rags ready to catch any fuel that may spill during this step.

Step 5: Install the Inline Fuel Filter

Take the inline fuel filter and insert one end of the cut fuel line into the corresponding hole on the filter. Secure the connection by firmly pushing or screwing it in place, depending on the filter's design. Repeat this step for the other end of the fuel line. Ensure that the filter is installed in the correct direction, as some filters are designed to be unidirectional.

Step 6: Test the Installation

Once the inline fuel filter is installed, start the motorcycle and let it run for a few minutes. Carefully inspect the filter and the fuel line connections for any signs of leaks. Also, pay attention to the engine's performance to ensure that the fuel flow is not restricted by the new filter. If there are no leaks and the engine runs smoothly, your inline fuel filter installation is complete!

How often to change an inline fuel filter

The fuel filter in your Ural motorcycle is an important component that ensures your engine receives clean fuel. It constantly works to trap debris, impurities, and moisture, preventing them from entering the engine. Over time, the fuel filter will become dirty and clogged, leading to a reduction in fuel reaching the engine. Therefore, it is crucial to replace the fuel filter at regular intervals to maintain optimal engine performance.

Most motorcycle manufacturers recommend replacing the fuel filter every 40,000 kilometres or three years. However, this interval may vary depending on the condition of the fuel in your city. For example, Honda and Yamaha recommend replacing the fuel filter cup in digital motorcycles and scooters every 10,000 kilometres, while for motorcycles with electronic fuel injection systems, the interval is extended to 20,000 kilometres.

It is important to be vigilant for signs of a failing fuel filter, as a dirty or clogged filter can lead to engine damage. If your engine sputters, stops running, or fails to start, it may be an indication that the fuel filter needs attention. Additionally, if your motorcycle does not stay cranked, it could be a result of a faulty fuel filter.

To confirm if the fuel filter requires replacement, you can get a fuel pressure check performed by a mechanic. This test measures the pressure at the fuel rail after the fuel pump. For motorcycles, the normal pressure range falls between 30 and 60 PSI. If the pressure reading is lower than this range, it could be an indication that the fuel filter needs to be replaced.

By adhering to the recommended replacement intervals and staying attentive to any signs of fuel filter malfunction, you can help ensure that your Ural motorcycle's engine receives clean fuel, optimising its performance and longevity.

The best type of inline fuel filter for your Ural motorcycle

When it comes to choosing the best type of inline fuel filter for your Ural motorcycle, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, it's important to select a filter that is compatible with your specific Ural model. For example, Ural offers internal fuel filters for EFI models from 2014 to 2018. Similarly, they also provide external fuel filters for EFI models from 2016 to 2018. Ensuring that you select the correct filter for your motorcycle's make and model is crucial.

Another factor to consider is the size and rating of the fuel filter. It's important to choose a filter that can handle the required fuel flow rate and pressure. Selecting a filter with an inadequate rating may lead to fuel starvation due to a pressure drop. Opting for a filter with the largest surface area possible will help ensure sufficient fuel flow.

The location of the fuel filter is also important. Some Ural owners choose to install the filter before the split to each carburettor, while others prefer to install it directly in the fuel tank. If you're considering an inline filter, it's crucial to place it in a spot that won't restrict fuel flow or cause engine issues.

In addition to the above, it's worth noting that while some Ural owners advocate for the use of fuel filters, others believe they are unnecessary. Some people argue that the factory-installed petcock screen is sufficient, and that additional filters can impede fuel flow. However, those in favour of fuel filters highlight their effectiveness in preventing rust, sediment, and paint flakes from entering the carburettor or fuel injection system.

Ultimately, the decision to install an inline fuel filter on your Ural motorcycle depends on various factors, including your specific model, personal preference, and the level of protection you desire for your fuel system. It's always a good idea to consult a professional or refer to the manufacturer's recommendations when making such decisions.

The drawbacks of using an inline fuel filter

While inline fuel filters are designed to prevent clogs in your fuel system, there are some drawbacks to using them. Here are some disadvantages to be aware of:

Restricted Fuel Flow: The addition of an inline fuel filter introduces an extra component in the fuel line, which can potentially restrict the flow of fuel to the engine. This is especially true if the filter is not properly sized or becomes clogged over time. Inadequate fuel flow can lead to reduced engine performance and, in extreme cases, fuel starvation.

Increased Maintenance: Inline fuel filters require regular maintenance and replacement. Neglecting to replace the filter at the recommended intervals can lead to a buildup of impurities, reducing the filter's effectiveness and potentially causing the issues it was intended to prevent.

Cost Implications: Regular replacement of inline fuel filters incurs additional costs. While the filters themselves may be inexpensive, the labour costs associated with their replacement can add up over time.

Engine Performance: While inline fuel filters are designed to improve fuel efficiency, there have been mixed experiences among motorcycle owners. Some riders have reported no noticeable difference in engine performance after installing an inline fuel filter, while others have experienced improved performance.

Installation Complexity: Installing an inline fuel filter can be a complex task, especially for those without mechanical expertise. Incorrect installation may lead to fuel leaks or other issues, requiring additional time and effort to rectify.

While inline fuel filters can be beneficial in certain situations, it is important to consider these drawbacks. Alternatives such as using premium fuel or regularly cleaning the fuel tank and petcock screen may be sufficient to maintain optimal fuel system performance without the need for an inline fuel filter.

Frequently asked questions