Yanmar 2GM20 Fuel Filter Replacement
A clogged fuel filter starves your Yanmar 2GM20 of fuel — hard starts, hesitation and lost power at speed. Below is the exact filter that fits, a step-by-step video, and the symptoms to look for.
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Watch: how to do it (step by step)
How to Replace Fuel Filter – Yanmar 2GM20
Yanmar 2GM20F – Fuel lift pump replacement
Tools Needed
- Stanley knife
- Socket or spanner (correct size)
- Paper towels
- Oil rag
- Fresh diesel
- Thread tape
- Grease
Safety
- Warning: Ensure the engine is turned off before starting any work.
- Warning: Be cautious when handling fuel and fuel components to avoid spills.
Steps
- Locate the fuel shuttle valve and turn it 90° to the fuel line to shuttle the fuel to the fuel lift pump.
- Locate the fuel lift pump on the starboard side of the engine.
- Identify the fuel line coming into the fuel lift pump and the pipe clamp holding it to the fuel pump.
- Identify the outlet of the fuel pump going to a stainless steel tube.
- Remove the bolts that hold the fuel connection to the stainless steel tube to the fuel pump.
- Pull the manual fuel lift lever down.
- Access the bolt behind the lever and remove the bolt.
- Identify the bolt on the other side of the fuel lift pump and remove that bolt as well.
- Ease the fuel lift pump away from the engine and place all the items on an oil rag.
- Use a paper towel to dab up any oil leaking from the open hole now where the fuel pump has been removed.
- Use a Stanley knife to remove any excess gasket, making sure not to damage the surface.
- Remove the bolt holding the intake connection to the fuel lift pump using a socket or spanner of the correct size.
- Clean all the components using fresh diesel and a brush.
- Apply thread tape to the bolts of the inlets and outlets.
- Prepare the new fuel lift pump and its gasket ready to install.
- Apply some grease to both sides of the gasket to help seal it and also make it easier to remove at a later stage.
- Reinstall the fuel pump, making sure not to damage the gasket, and tighten both of the bolts holding it in place.
- Reinstall both the intake and outtake fuel lines to the fuel lift pump.
- Tighten the pipe clamp securely so there's no fuel leak.
- Place the fuel cut-off valve in line with the fuel line to allow fuel to come to the fuel lift pump.
- Either use the manual fuel lift pump lever or the electric pump to push fuel through the system.
- Identify the fuel filter and the bleed screws on top of the fuel filter.
- Loosen the air bleed screw and keep pumping the fuel until all the air is out of the fuel line and there are no air bubbles left coming out.
- Secure the screw, closing off the bleed.
- Identify the injectors of the engine.
- Using the correct size spanner, loosen the fuel line going to the injectors about half a turn.
- Do the same for the other injector.
- Loosen the fuel line holding nut half a turn.
- Place some paper towels at the underside of each of the fuel lines to monitor that the fuel is coming out.
- While holding both compression valve levers open, get someone to turn over the engine a number of times while you watch to see the fuel come out of the fuel lines at the injectors.
- Allow sufficient fuel to come out of the fuel lines to ensure there are no more air bubbles left in the fuel line.
- Retighten the fuel line nuts connecting to the injector.
- Start the engine as per normal and you may get a few splutterings, but you should get it going.
Tips
- Ensure all bolts are tightened securely to prevent fuel leaks.
- Cleaning the components thoroughly helps maintain the engine's efficiency.
Which part do I need for my Yanmar 2GM20?
For most 2GM20 owners the part above (104500) is the right choice. Price tip: the aftermarket numbers are usually noticeably cheaper than the OEM-branded box — it is the same physical part. If you need an exact match, these compatible part numbers also fit:
Show all compatible part numbers (6)
| Part number | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| 128270 | Yanmar, Air Filter, 128270-12540 | Find on Amazon → |
| 24341 | Yanmar, Fuel Filter O-Ring, 1A S-44.0, 24341-000440 | Find on Amazon → |
| YAN104500-55710 | Yanmar Secondary Fuel Filter | Find on Amazon → |
| YAN128270-12540 | Yanmar Air Filter ( Intake Element ) | Find on Amazon → |
| YAN23418-060000 | Yanmar Nylon Secondary Fuel Filter Housing Bleed Washer | Find on Amazon → |
| YAN24341-000440 | Yanmar Secondary Fuel Filter O-Ring 1A S-44.0 | Find on Amazon → |
Many of these are the same physical part under different brand numbers. Confirm against your engine plate before ordering.
Frequently asked questions
What fuel filter fits a Yanmar 2GM20?
The Yanmar 2GM20 uses the fuel filter sold as 104500, plus its OEM and aftermarket cross-references (6 compatible numbers are listed above). Confirm the number against your engine's model code and year plate before ordering.
How often should I replace the fuel filter on a Yanmar 2GM20?
Replace the fuel filter once a season or per the service manual — and sooner after a batch of dirty fuel or water in the separator.
What are the symptoms of a clogged fuel filter on a Yanmar 2GM20?
Hard starting, hesitation or surging under load, stalling at higher throttle and a general loss of power. The engine typically runs fine at idle and starves when fuel demand rises.
Do I need to bleed or prime the fuel system afterwards?
On diesel engines, yes — air must be bled from the fuel system after the filter change, and the video shows the procedure. On petrol outboards, squeeze the primer bulb firm before starting.
How long does a fuel filter change take on a Yanmar 2GM20?
Usually 30-60 minutes including priming or bleeding — a straightforward DIY job with basic tools.
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