What is a backfire flame arrestor?

Internal combustion engines can backfire. In order to prevent flames from the backfire causing a fire onboard, an approved Backfire Flame Arrestor must be attached to the air intake with a flame tight connection. 

 

Backfire flame arrestor

Is a backfire flame arrestor required on a boat?

Due to the potential for boat engines to backfire, it is a requirement for all powerboats (excluding outboards) fueled with gasoline to be equipped with an backfire flame arrestor on each carburetor.

What type of engine has a backfire flame arrestor?

Inboard engines should be equipped with a backfire flame arrestor.

How often backfire flame arrestors be inspected?

Inspecting your backfire arrestor on a monthly basis is important to ensure it is securely attached to the carburetor.

How to maintain a backfire flame arrestor?

It is very important to insure that your Flame Arrestor is clean and undamaged. If there is a hole in the grid, or oil or gasoline in the grid, or if it is not properly attached, it will not work correctly. To clean the flame arrestor, remove it and wash the heat dissipation grid with soap and water. Let dry thoroughly and reinstall. Make sure that the arrestor has a flame-tight connection.

Flame arrestors must be in good and serviceable condition.

The USCG now accepts flame arrestors complying with Underwriters Laboratories Standard 1111 or Society of Automotive Engineers J1928.  

 

back fire flame arrestor
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