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Fuel filter replacement
Sent to Car Experts June 26 08:13 PM

My wife let the fuel tank get near empty and I think it may have sucked-up some debri from the bottom of the tank. I suspect the fuel filter maybe restricted and need changing but I have been unable to determine the location and repair procedures. The vehicle is a 1994 Pontiac Bonneville SE. Thanks for your assistance.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
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Answer
June 26 8:29 PM (16 minutes and 4 seconds later)
         
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CAUTION To reduce the risk of fire and personal injury, it is necessary to relieve the fuel system pressure before servicing any fuel system component. If this procedure is not performed, fuel may be sprayed out of the connection under pressure. Cover fuel hose connections with a shop towel before disconnecting to catch any residual fuel that may still be in the line. Always keep a dry chemical (Class B) fire extinguisher near the work area.

The fuel filter is located in the fuel feed line attached to the frame rail, at the rear of the vehicle. The fuel filter may be either a quick-connect or threaded fitting type. Check your vehicle to see which type it has and proceed accordingly.


REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

See Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4

CAUTIONObserve all applicable safety precautions when working around fuel. Whenever servicing the fuel system, always work in a well ventilated area. Do not allow fuel spray or vapors to come in contact with a spark or open flame. Keep a dry chemical fire extinguisher near the work area. Always keep fuel in a container specifically designed for fuel storage; also, always properly seal fuel containers to avoid the possibility of fire or explosion.

  1. Relieve the fuel system pressure, as outlined in Fuel System of this repair guide.

  2. If not already done, disconnect the negative battery cable.

  3. Raise and safely support the vehicle.

Images available only to Customers.
Fig. 1: The fuel filter is mounted on the frame rail, just forward of the rear wheel


To reduce fuel spillage, place a shop towel over the fuel lines before disconnecting.

  1. If equipped with quick-connect fuel line fittings, perform the following:

    1. Grasp the filter and 1 fuel line fitting. Twist the quick-connect fitting 1/4 turn in each direction to loosen any dirt within the fitting. Repeat for the other fuel line fitting.

    2. Use compressed air, blow out dirt from the quick-connect fittings at both ends of the fuel filter.

    3. To disconnect plastic fuel line fittings, squeeze the plastic tabs of the male end of the connector and pull the connector apart. Repeat for the other fitting.

    4. To disconnect metal fuel line fittings, choose the proper size tool from a suitable quick-connect tool set, for the size of the quick-connect fitting. Insert the tool into the female connector, then push inward with the tool in order to release the locking tabs. Pull the connection apart.

  2. If equipped with threaded fuel line fittings, perform the following:

    1. Use a back-up wrench to disconnect the fuel lines from the filter.

  3. Loosen the filter bracket attaching screw/bolt, then slide the filter from the bracket.

Images available only to Customers.
Fig. 2: Some early model vehicles have fuel filters with threaded fuel lines - 1991 vehicle shown


Images available only to Customers.
Fig. 3: Other vehicles have quick-connect fittings at the fuel filter - 1995 vehicle shown


Images available only to Customers.
Fig. 4: Some vehicles, such as 1997-99 models, have filters with quick-connect and threaded fittings


To install:

  1. If necessary, remove the protective caps from the new fuel filter. Position the filter in the bracket. Using new O-rings, install the fuel lines to the filter.

  2. For filters with quick-connect lines, perform the following:

    1. Apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male fuel pipe end.

    2. Push both sides of the quick-connect fitting together in order to cause the retaining tabs/fingers to snap into place.

    3. Once installed, pull on both sides of the quick-connect fitting to ensure connector is secure.

    4. If equipped, reposition the dust cover over the quick-connect fitting.

  3. For filters with threaded fuel lines, use a back-up wrench to prevent the filter from turning, then tighten the fittings to 22 ft. lbs. (30 Nm).

  4. Securely tighten the fuel filter bracket retaining screw/bolt.

  5. Carefully lower the vehicle.

  6. Connect the negative battery cable, and check for leaks as follows:



Edited by enginboy on June 26 2005 at 8:30 PM
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Marc -- Technician -- 98% Positive Feedback on 1029 Car Accepts
33 years exp. automotive repair NYS emisisions repair cert.
Info Request
June 26 8:31 PM (1 minute and 26 seconds later)
         


Post back if you need further assistance. Car category mentor
If my answer was helpful please click on the ACCEPT BUTTON Thank you Marc
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Marc -- Technician -- 98% Positive Feedback on 1029 Car Accepts
33 years exp. automotive repair NYS emisisions repair cert.
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