The signs of blocked Yamaha VST filters have been the subject of several customer questions.
Therefore, if you, too, think that the unit isn’t performing as you would like it to, the list of symptoms below will help you understand the problem with your outboard’s filter. Find out more about it in the next few seconds!
Yamaha VST Filter Symptoms
1. VST Outboard Engine Sputter
Although the Yamaha VST filter may last five times longer than the typical fuel filter, it may become clogged if you don’t change it for a few months.
After that, the engine may start sputtering, and you won’t be able to have any performance. In addition, if you add more load to the outboard, the engine will shut off instantly.
Therefore, if you experience a similar issue, your VST filter is probably blocked.
So, to increase the longevity of your VST filters, consider using good fuel in the system along with some fuel stabilizers.
If not, the filters will clog significantly more quickly, and your engine won’t be repairable.
2. VST Outboard Will Exhibit A No-Start Engine Problem
Starting your VST outboard engine will be difficult if the filter blocks the fuel supply.
Even though a few elements, such as a depleted battery and proper wiring, may be at play in this scenario, clogged VST filters are one of the significant causes of your problem.
So, instead of replacing the VST filters immediately, you may start by checking the wiring, spark plugs, and battery voltage output.
Of course, you could place a new VST filter in the system if you’re sure there isn’t anything wrong with the wiring cluster or spark plugs.
If not, controlling your outboard’s performance will be difficult. These filters are located on the gasoline pump and may be replaced in less than ten minutes.
3. VST Engine Idling Troubles
Your engine will occasionally have idling issues and shut down. Therefore, you should replace your VST filter 250 hours after operations.
If you go beyond that, you’ll start to encounter these problems. So, in this case, the sole solution is to replace the unit’s filter, after which you should try using the outboard again.
These were a few signs that a VST filter is clogged that you should be aware of.
Further, examining the VST filter might help you focus on the problem because most of these symptoms can be confused with those of other fuel pump problems.
4. VST Engine Efficiency Issues
A blocked VST fuel filter may cause your outboard engine to erratically surge, stumble, or hesitate when operating under solid loads.
Accelerating, especially going up a steep wave, tends to make this more noticeable.
Further, under normal sailing circumstances, there could be no symptoms, but a blocked fuel filter will deprive the engine of the additional fuel it needs while accelerating fast.
Of course, the amount of fuel limitation brought on by a filthy filter will determine how shaky or stuttery an engine is.
5. Terrible VST Engine Starting
Rarely a malfunctioning fuel filter will prevent the engine from running unless it is completely clogged.
However, when a VST fuel filter in your boat is unclean and has never had one replaced, the fuel flow might become unpredictable and take longer to start the engine than typical.
That said, to find out how often to replace filters, consult your owner’s handbook.
6. VST Engine Stalling
If your VST engine frequently stops while you’re steering, your fuel filter may be unclean.
Again, given how awful the clog was, your boat could start up again with no apparent loss of power.
Also, stalls increase in frequency or get worse when accelerating as the obstruction worsens and fuel supply is more erratic.
Therefore, it’s probably time to change the filter because it is becoming entirely blocked.
7. Sudden Rough Idle Or Misfire
Low fuel pressure from a blocked Yamaha VST fuel filter leads to a lean fuel situation and engine misfire.
In addition, it might result in poor fuel economy, difficult idling, and the check engine light. Further, a visit to the service center is necessary when the light comes on.
8. Fuel System Components Mishaps
A constrained fuel filter may be the root of a loud, damaged, or failing fuel pump. The proper amount of gasoline can’t get to the engine if the fuel filter is blocked.
That said, a poor fuel filter will cause the pump to attempt to make up for it, putting too much strain on the pump’s motor and causing it to break down too soon.
So, contaminants bypassing a filthy fuel filter can harm, clog, or even result in a fuel injector leaking, creating various drivability issues with an engine.
However, if not totally failed, removing a clogged fuel filter and having the injectors serviced or flushed (done by experts) should get you back on track for a reasonable cost.
9. High Vacuum Gauge Reading
The filter has to be replaced if the vacuum rises. However, the baseline should be established with clean fuel components before dealing with potentially contaminated fuel or a filter.
Therefore, one thing to remember is that, though your fuel filter is most likely where the vacuum gauge would indicate a problem, it might also indicate a blockage in the manifold or fuel pickup.
So, you may save time and money by using a decent vacuum gauge to determine whether it is required to replace your filter.
To know more, you can also read our posts on wrong oil filter symptoms, why your engine is overheating, and why your check engine light is on.
Conclusion
Now that you know the Yamaha VST filter symptoms, you’ll be more confident in taking your boat into the water and enjoying the day.
However, the problem will not end by just recognizing the symptoms; you should also take action to maintain your VST filter and replace it if necessary.