Fuel Filter: Description and Operation

Fuel Filter:

WARNING: To reduce the risk of personal injury, always cover a nylon fuel filter with a wet towel using a torch near it. Also, never expose the vehicle to temperatures higher than 115° C (239° F) for more than one hour, or more than 90° C (194° F) for any extended period.
Take care not to nick or scratch the fuel filter. If damaged, the filter should be replaced.

DESCRIPTION

A moulded nylon in-line fuel filter is used in the fuel feed line ahead of the fuel injection system. The nylon filter housing is constructed to withstand maximum fuel system pressure, exposure to fuel additives and changes in temperature. The filter element is made of paper, and is designed to trap particles in the fuel that may damage the injection system. Quick-connect type fittings are used at both ends of the filter. For more information on quick-connect fittings, refer to FUEL TANK AND HOSES.

OTHER FILTERS AND STRAINERS

A woven plastic fuel pump filter (strainer/sock) is attached to the lower end of the fuel pump in the fuel tank. The functions of the fuel pump filter are to filter contaminants and to wick the fuel.
The life of the fuel pump filter is generally considered to be that of the fuel pump. The fuel pump filter is self cleaning and normally requires no maintenance. fuel stoppage at this point indicates that the fuel tank contains an abnormal amount of sediment or water. In which case the tank should be thoroughly cleaned. Refer to MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES/FUEL SYSTEM CLEANING. If the fuel pump filter becomes plugged, it will be necessary to replace it with a new filter.