Fuel Filter

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

On most vehicles covered by this manual, the fuel filter is located in the engine compartment, mounted to the firewall.

CAUTION
Do not use conventional fuel filters, hoses or clamps when servicing fuel injection systems. They are not compatible with the injection system and could fail, causing personal injury or damage to the vehicle. Use only hoses and clamps specifically designed for fuel injection systems.

1. Properly relieve the fuel system pressure as outlined in Section 5 of this manual.
2. If not already done, disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. On most models, the job is made easier if the air inlet hose and upper air cleaner housing is removed from the vehicle.

   NOTE: Wrap shop towels around the fitting that is being disconnected to absorb residual fuel in the lines.

4. Cover the hose connection with shop towels to prevent any splash of fuel that could be caused by residual pressure in the fuel pipe line. Hold the fuel filter nut securely with a backup wrench, then remove the banjo bolt on the engine feed line. Disconnect the high-pressure fuel line from the filter. Remove and discard the gaskets.

   Fig. 1: Use a back-up wrench on the fuel filter nut when loosening the banjo-bolt on the engine feed line

5. While holding the fuel filter nut securely with a back-up wrench, loosen the filter feed pipe flare nut on the bottom of the filter. Separate the flare nut connection from the filter. If equipped, remove and discard the gaskets.

   Fig. 2: After the banjo-bolt is loose, remove it from the fuel filter

   Fig. 3: Make sure to replace the copper washers on the banjo-bolt fitting

   Fig. 4: Make sure to use a back-up wrench when unfastening the main fuel pipe also

   Fig. 5: Remove the two filter bracket retaining bolts . . .

   Fig. 6: . . . then remove the filter from the vehicle

6. Remove the mounting bolts and remove the fuel filter. If necessary, remove the fuel filter bracket.

   To install:

7. Install the filter to its bracket only finger-tight. Movement of the filter will ease attachment of the fuel lines.

   WARNING
   Ensure that the filter is installed with the flow arrow in the proper direction. The flow arrow typically points toward the engine side of the filter. Improper installation of the fuel filter will cause the vehicle to run poorly.

   NOTE: Make sure new O-rings are installed prior to installation.

8. Insert the filter feed pipe to the lower connection of the filter and manually screw in the main pipe's flare nut.
9. While holding the fuel filter nut with a back-up wrench, tighten the banjo bolt to 22 ft. lbs. (30 Nm). Tighten the flare nut to 25 ft. lbs. (35 Nm), with a back-up wrench on the nut.
10. Tighten the filter mounting bolts to 10 ft. lbs. (14 Nm).
11. Connect the negative battery cable. Turn the key to the ON position to pressurize the fuel system and check for leaks.
12. If repairs of a leak are required, remember to release the fuel pressure before opening the fuel system.