Got around to changing the VST fuel filter on my 2019 135HO Etec (G1 - same as the 150).
As I posted earlier, mine has the updated / final fuel pump and the piping makes it a bit more difficult to access the filter. Anyway, managed to get a set of cutters in and snip the Oetiker clamp and wiggle off the pipe. The VST filter slips into the fuel filter housing inside the pipe. The filter is a tight friction fit and the old one is actually really hard to remove. I saw a youtube video showing that the best way to remove it is to take a wood screw (a #8 I think) and thread it into the old filter so the threads grab the sides and you can pull it out. This worked like a charm and really would have been impossible to get the old filter out otherwise.
Anyway, my boat has about 210hrs and is protected by both the internal spin on fuel-filter as well as an external 10 micron Racor so my assumption was that replacement was totally optional/overkill. Likewise, replacing the VST isn't even listed in the ETEC service manual and isn't included in the 300hr service kit (just the regular fuel filter).
Wrong, filter definitely had visible debris in it, but more notably appeared significantly deformed like it was somewhat collapsed under suction. I haven't run the boat yet, so I'm curious if I was losing some top end from fuel starvation.
When re-assembling I ditched the oetiker clamp because there is no real way to get the clamp tool in there and swapped for a high pressure fuel injection clamp (different from a gear clamp). This should make it a bit more serviceable in the future.
All in all, a fiddly little job - but highly recommend for any Etec owners. It not a standard replacement part, but if you are having a mechanic do your 300hr service, definitely request it. Part number for the filter is 0362268 and you need a 17mm clamp
Photos below
