Goldenrod Water-Block Fuel Filter Element (496-5) — 17µm Water-Absorbing Replacement for 496/496-3/4

The GOLDENROD (496-5) Water-Block replacement element is a water-absorbing fuel filter cartridge designed to trap free water and alert you to change the filter by restricting flow when saturated.

Keep fuel systems free of damaging water with a direct-fit replacement element engineered for GOLDENROD see-through bowl Water-Block models 496 and 496-3/4. This cartridge uses hydrophilic polymer media with 17 micron particulate filtration to capture water and contaminants from both gasoline and diesel, helping protect engines, pumps, and fuel injectors. Made in the U.S.A., the element is designed to install quickly and perform reliably in marine, automotive, agricultural, and generator applications.

How does the Water-Block element remove water from fuel?

The element contains water-attracting polymers that draw in free water droplets from the fuel stream. As the polymers absorb moisture they swell, separating water from fuel and reducing the element’s flow rate to signal replacement is needed. This process captures both free water and particulates, improving fuel quality downstream.

• Hydrophilic polymers absorb free water and swell
• 17 micron media removes small particulates along with water
• Swelling action restricts flow to indicate replacement
• Works with gasoline and diesel fuels

What vehicles and filters is this cartridge compatible with?

This replacement element is made specifically for GOLDENROD see-through bowl Water-Block housings. It fits model 496 and the shorter 496-3/4 designs only — check your bowl and model marking before ordering. Using the correct element ensures proper sealing and the intended water-absorbing performance.

• Direct-fit for GOLDENROD Water-Block models 496 and 496-3/4
• Not compatible with other GOLDENROD bowl styles or brands
• Suitable for marine, automotive, farm, and stationary engines
• Replace according to manufacturer guidelines or when flow slows

What filtration level and materials are used in this element?

The cartridge offers 17 micron filtration to capture larger particulates while focusing on water removal through its polymer core. The combination of mechanical filtration and hydrophilic media keeps contaminants from reaching fuel system components while providing a clear visual and flow-based indication of saturation.

• 17 micron particle filtration rating
• Water-absorbing polymer core separates and traps water
• Durable construction suitable for repeated installation
• Manufactured in the United States for consistent quality

How do I recognize when it’s time to replace the element?

Because the polymers swell as they absorb water, a saturated element exhibits a measurable reduction in fuel flow. In see-through bowl housings you may also observe water accumulation and reduced clarity. Replace the element when flow becomes restricted or when visible water appears in the bowl.

• Flow decreases as the polymer media becomes saturated
• Visible water or cloudiness in the see-through bowl signals change
• Follow usage patterns and manufacturer maintenance intervals
• Always replace with the correct model 496-5 element for best results

Who this is for: Owners and technicians who use GOLDENROD see-through bowl Water-Block fuel filters — including boaters, farmers, fleet operators, and backup-generator caretakers — will value the 496-5 replacement element. It’s intended for anyone who needs reliable water removal from gasoline or diesel, wants a clear visual maintenance cue, and requires a direct-fit, U.S.-made cartridge for models 496 and 496-3/4.