Replacing fuel filter on a 2001 Rinker 212

Vigilance

Some advice needed. I have a 2001 212 with the 5.0 EFI and need to change the fuel filter. It is really tight in the lower part of the engine area in a plastic box. What's the best way to get it out without a mess. Do all the lines going in and out need to be removed? I am guessing the bottom of the plastic box helps catch the mess, but it is so tight to the bottom of the boat it only drops about a 1/2 inch. Not enough to get a filter wrench on it and probably not enough to slide it out. What say you?

bella-vita

Mine was also tight because they used a different brand filter than oem mercruiser but I was able to slide the cover out to remove filter 

Vigilance

I got it figured out. Was easy to drop the 2-1/2 inch nuts and slide the whole thing up. simple fix and easy to get back together. Boats is ready for the MN winter!!

bella-vita

Nice