I have a 2004 Catalina 36 MKII with a 35MB engine.  I found diesel fuel in my bilge and eventually traced it back to the engine fuel lift pump prefilter.  This is the one right before the external engine fuel lift pump by the red breaker reset button.  Not sure why the leak started now, or exactly where it was coming from, but I removed the prefliter completely and reconnected all lines without it and solved my leak problem.  It appears the prefilter may have been bent during original assembly as it barely fit in the engine comaprtment space and may have been bent to make everything fit.after connected to the fuel lines.

Since the Racor filter is betwen the fuel tank and lift pump, I am wondering if this filter is redundant and can be eliminated, or if it is a good idea to replace it.  I cannot find the prefilter listed in the Universal Engine manual or parts book.

Any advice on if it needs to be replaced or left out of the fuel circuit and if it should be replaced, part numbers or specifications would all be appreciated.