Why is it important to replace your fuel pump strainer regularly, even though your fuel pump is functioning perfectly fine? The fuel pump strainer (also known as pre-filter or fuel sock) is a fuel system's first line of defence against fuel system contamination; including dirt, dust, or other fine particles found in regular pump gasoline.
Gasoline also has a tendency to varnish over time, leaving a thick filmy layer over everything inside the tank--from the fuel pump internals to the tank walls, and especially the strainer / pre-filter. A varnished or clogged strainer restricts flow, forcing the fuel pump to work harder, which affects pump longevity. Without a doubt, fuel tank varnishing and strainer clogging are the #1 causes of fuel pump failure.
For Powersports applications where the motor is not run every single day like an automotive vehicle, fuel pump strainers should be replaced every year, as inexpensive preventative maintenance. Additionally, if the motor will not be used for any extended period of time, we highly recommend adding a bottle of fuel stabilizer to the tank and running the motor for a few minutes to circulate the fuel stabilizer throughout the system.