Bronze and paper element filters are interchangeable. Paper elements are cheaper, but need to be replaced more often, due to degradation. The bronze style filter can be cleaned, in most cases, with a good soaking in carb cleaner, and then blown dry. Either will work. Paper filters come in a long style, and short style. Chances are, if you have a bronze filter now, it is the short one.
Some paper filters also have an "anti-drainback valve" in them. This is supposed to keep fuel from siphoning back out of the fuel bowl, but...if the float in the carb is sealing properly, this is not an issue. I normally remove the drainback valves myself...don't see the need for them, plus they create a restriction in the flow of fuel. Remove the valve and spring, and re-install the rubber seal part only. The
open end of the filter goes into the fitting. With either type, always re-install the spring into the carb first, then the closed end of the filter next to the spring. This keeps the open end of the filter sealed against the fitting.
I personally
prefer the bronze filters, but either will work.
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Joel Adams
C3VR Lifetime Member #56 
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