Sierra 18-7861 OMC Fuel Filter & Cannister
Sierra 18-7861 OMC Fuel Filter & Cannister Product Description
Keep your OMC outboard running smoothly on the water with this reliable fuel filter and canister kit. Designed as a direct replacement for the original OMC 98191, this Sierra kit ensures clean fuel delivery by trapping dirt, rust particles, and water before they can harm your engine's carburetor or injectors. Boat enthusiasts know that a clogged fuel filter leads to hard starts, hesitation under load, and poor performance—issues that vanish with fresh filtration.
Key Features of the Sierra Fuel Filter Kit
- Complete assembly includes both the high-efficiency filter element and durable canister for hassle-free replacement.
- Precision-engineered to match OEM specifications, providing a perfect fit without modifications.
- Marine-grade construction resists corrosion from saltwater exposure and ethanol-blended fuels.
- Transparent canister design lets you visually inspect fuel flow and contamination levels at a glance.
- Meets or exceeds industry standards for flow rate and filtration micron rating, optimized for OMC 2-stroke and 4-stroke outboards.
Why This Kit Boosts Your Outboard's Reliability
Fuel systems in outboards face unique challenges: debris from tank sediment, algae growth in stale gas, and moisture from condensation. This Sierra kit captures particles down to 10 microns, preventing injector clogs and vapor lock issues common in warm climates. Users report smoother idling, better acceleration, and fewer breakdowns after installation. It's not just a filter—it's peace of mind for weekend warriors and commercial operators alike.
Pro tip: Pair it with a water-separating fuel filter upstream for ultimate protection in humid or rainy boating conditions. Regular swaps keep ethanol fuels from gumming up the system, extending the life of your fuel pump and carbs.
Easy Compatibility and Installation
This kit fits a wide range of OMC engines, from classic Johnson and Evinrude models to later OMC powerheads. Confirm fitment by cross-referencing with your engine's service manual—it's a drop-in solution for most 40HP to 150HP setups from the 1980s through 2000s. Installation takes under 30 minutes:
- Shut off fuel supply and relieve pressure.
- Disconnect hoses and remove old canister.
- Install new kit with fresh O-rings; torque fittings to spec.
- Prime the system and check for leaks before firing up.
No special tools required, but always work in a well-ventilated area away from sparks.
Maintenance Tips for Peak Performance
Inspect your fuel filter every 50 hours of operation or annually, whichever comes first. Look for darkening media, water accumulation, or restricted flow. In high-use scenarios like fishing charters, replace twice a season. Storing your boat? Drain the system or add stabilizer to prevent varnish buildup. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and maximizes fuel efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engines is the Sierra 18-7861 fuel filter kit compatible with?
It serves as a direct OMC 98191 replacement for many Johnson, Evinrude, and other OMC outboards, typically 40HP to 150HP models from the 1980s to early 2000s. Always verify with your engine serial number.
Does this kit include everything needed for replacement?
Yes, it comes complete with the filter element, canister, O-rings, and mounting hardware—ready to install out of the box.
How do I know if my fuel filter needs replacing?
Signs include engine bogging down at high RPMs, difficulty starting, black smoke from exhaust, or visible debris in the old filter. Visual inspection via the clear canister confirms issues quickly.
Is this filter suitable for ethanol fuels?
Absolutely. The materials are ethanol-resistant, helping combat phase separation and corrosion common with E10 and higher blends.
Can I reuse the old canister with a new filter?
Not recommended. The full kit ensures seals and fittings are fresh, preventing leaks. Canister cracks from age or impact compromise safety.
How often should I replace this OMC fuel filter?
Every 100 hours of use or annually for recreational boating; more frequently for heavy commercial duty or if using stabilized fuel.
Will this improve fuel economy?
Clean filtration optimizes fuel atomization, often yielding 5-10% better efficiency by reducing rich running from blockages.
Save $10 when you buy the Sierra 18-7861 OMC Fuel Filter & Cannister for only $29 from NVN Marine! Same day shipping before 3pm.
Sierra 18-7861 OMC Fuel Filter & Cannister Technical Specifications
| Type: | |
|---|---|
| Vendor: |
Sierra Engine Parts |
| Weight: |
0.31 lb |
| Replaces: |
OMC 981911 |
Sierra 18-7861 OMC Fuel Filter & Cannister User Reviews
Sierra 18-7861 OMC Fuel Filter & Cannister Shipping & Return
| Shipping Weight: |
0.31 lb |
|---|---|
| Box Sizes: |
3.00 (h) x 5.00 (w) x 9.00 (l) |
| Cubic Feet: |
135.0 |
| Returnable: |
Yes |
For detailed shipping policy please check our Shipping Policy and you can find our Return and Refund Policy here.



