Fuel Filter: Service and Repair
REMOVAL PROCEDURECAUTION: Refer to Battery Disconnect Caution In Service Precautions.
1. The fuel filter (2) is located under the rear of the car, behind the fuel tank. There is no service interval for fuel filter replacement. Replacement is required only if the fuel filter becomes restricted. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Relieve the fuel system pressure. Refer to Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure.
CAUTION: Provide additional support when a vehicle is on a hoist in the following ways:
^ Before removing parts, support the opposite end. This helps prevent the vehicle from slipping off.
^ Before removing major components, chain the vehicle frame to the hoist pads at the same end as the removal. This helps avoid a tip-off.
Failure to follow these precautions could cause vehicle damage, serious personal injury, or death.
3. Raise the vehicle and suitably support.
CAUTION: In order to Reduce the Risk of Fire and Personal Injury:
^ If nylon fuel pipes are nicked, scratched or damaged during installation, Do Not attempt to repair the sections of the nylon fuel pipes. Replace them.
^ When installing new fuel pipes, Do Not hammer directly on the fuel harness body clips as it may damage the nylon pipes resulting in a possible fuel leak.
^ Always cover nylon vapor pipes with a wet towel before using a torch near them. 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.
^ Before connecting fuel pipe fittings, always apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male pipe ends. This will ensure proper reconnection and prevent a possible fuel leak. (During normal operation, the O-rings located in the female connector will swell and may prevent proper reconnection if not lubricated.)
4. Using back-up wrench, remove the fuel filter line fitting from the filter.
5. Grasp the fuel filter and the fuel pipe quick-connect fitting. Twist the quick-connect fitting 1/4 turn in each direction to loosen any dirt within fitting. Using compressed air, blow out dirt from quick-connect fittings at end of fuel filter.
6. Remove the quick connect fitting by pushing inward toward the fuel filter and grasping the plastic tab around the connector and pull apart.
7. Remove the fuel filter.
INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
CAUTION: Always apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male pipe ends before connecting fuel pipe fittings in order to reduce the risk of fire and personal injury.
This will ensure proper reconnection and prevent a possible fuel leak.
During normal operation, the O-rings located in the female connector will swell and may prevent proper reconnection if not lubricated.
1. Remove the protective caps from the new fuel filter.
2. Install the fuel filter (2) in same position as the old fuel filter.
3. Install the fuel filter fitting using a new O-ring.
^ Apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male tube end of the filter and of the fuel sender assembly.
^ Push the quick-connector (1) together to cause the retaining tabs/fingers to snap into place.
^ Once installed, pull on both ends of each connection to make sure they are secure.
NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.
4. Install the fuel filter fitting (3).
Tighten
- Use back up wrench to prevent the fuel filter O-ring or fuel pipe from damage.
- Tighten the fuel filter fitting to 27 N.m (20 lb ft).
5. Lower the vehicle.
6. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
7. Inspect for fuel leaks through the following steps:
8. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position for 2 seconds.
9. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position for 10 seconds.
10. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
11. Check for fuel leaks.