How to clean fuel filters?

[rrichr]

What chemical should I be using to clean these filters? I tried mineral spirits with a tooth brush to no avail.

The darn things are really expensive and I am trying to re-use them.

[Bryan Glynn]

If you have disassembled your carbs you need to get rebuild kits to put them backtogether anyway, and they include new filters. They are not supposed to be cleanable.

[rrichr]

Sorry to not be clear enough. I was talking about the fuel filter up in front of the gas tank accessible from the front hatch once you pull the bucket out. It says in the shop manual to clean it.

[Bryan Glynn]

Let it soak in carb cleaner for a few hours.

[97GP1200]

If we're talking about the OEM fuel filter (white screw on element) and it so dirty that mineral spirits and a toothbrush won't clean it instantly then your carb filters are plugged for sure.

You need a new filter. The OEM units for the 951 are only about $13. at the dealer although yours may be different. Scrubing the heck out of that fine mesh will make it too porous for effective use.

[Bill O'Neal]

Don't soak a plastic filter in carb cleaner. Use a spray parts and plastic cleaner. Don't scrub it with a brush. If you cannot get it cleaned out using spary cleaner, replace it.
Discoloration is normal and won't effect it's capacity to pass and filter fuel.

We reuse these filters alot, both internal and external. They usually clean up fine. But, some are just too clogged up and need to be replaced.

You can also add inline filters too. They cost about two bucks.