fuel filter
 

Are there two fuel filters? According to an online parts catalog, there is an intank and an inline.... but it only prices the in tank... wondering if the catalog is wrong... if there are two which do I replace? If both, which do I curse most while installing.

thanks.

There is a sock type filter on the fuel pump. That generally never needs changed.

The real filter is between the fuel tank and engine, located above the differential. Yes, all the way up there, above the gas tank. I just did mine in a parking lot on Saturday night, so it can be done, but it's not fun. It's a very important maintenance item. It's also around $50 from Malloy(!).

First, I suggest that read what's been read about the job. I'll add that I prefer to keep a couple of short 1/4" socket extensions handy to plug the hoses after I free them from the filter nipple. It also helps a lot to spray the hose with PB Blaster or WD-40 and trying to twist/push the hose free. They tend to be almost glued to the filter. To reduce the gasoline shower, I like to completely vent the fuel pressure by removing the fuel hose up near the oil filter (I think it's the top/forward most hose). Disconnect the battery and keep light bulbs far away during all of this to reduce the risk of a horrific fire.

Dave

The in-tank is a strainer. You can simply clean it. It doesn't need to be replaced unless it is ripped. The primary filter is mounted above the differential and is very difficult to replace. Take it to a shop that has never done it before. Why? They will quote you an hour to replace it but it will take them 2 to 3.

well, i have a 4,000 rpm cut off, and i am supposing its the fuel filter. i replaced the fuel pump and the "sock" was fine. ok then. I feel I must get down and dirty on the floor of my garage. I would take it to my shop, but thats an hour drive and I would hate to lean out for an hour in 100 degree weather...

dont have 2 drop the rear 2 get 2 it?

No. But it's not exactly spacious.

^^^

It's a pretty mild PITA compared to other things on the FD :) . If you have small ratchets with extensions and universal joints, it's not that bad.

I recommend using a 1/4" drive with 3" extension and 10mm swivel-head socket.

Then use the shortest/stubbiest set of pliers that will open the squeeze clamps on the fuel hose.

Dave

It wasn't fun to do that one for sure. I used plastic clamps from autozone to pinch hoses. As soon as you take 1 hose out - cap filter with rubber cap (HELP! section in Autozone). I didn't get almost any fuel spilled. Only what I had in 2-3 inches of hose between filter and place where hose pinched.

Hose also stuck on filter - but if you get good grip on filter and hose - it comes off by hand. Twist if first to break loose. Also, unbolt filter first so you can mnuver it a little.

Even with car lift I think I spent about 1 hour to do it. It's kind of pain, especially those clamps. I need to get myself this tool asap:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Flexi...spagenameZWDVW

Europian makers don't use those clamps.