Mercedes Mullins
Changing the filter on a fuel pump is a complex process that depends on the make and model of your vehicle. The fuel filter is responsible for filtering fuel coming from the fuel tank to prevent contaminants from reaching the fuel injectors. It is usually located somewhere along the high-pressure line underneath the vehicle, close to the fuel tank, or underneath the hood, near the engine. In some cases, it may be located inside the fuel pump or fuel tank and will require special tools to access. Before attempting to change the fuel filter, it is important to relieve the fuel system pressure by disabling the fuel pump and running the vehicle until it dies from a lack of fuel. It is also recommended to disconnect the battery to prevent the engine from being started accidentally.
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What You'll Learn
Identify the type of fuel pump and filter
Fuel pumps are used to pump fuel from the tank to the carburettor. They are an important part of delivering fuel to vehicle systems. The type of fuel pump and filter you have will depend on the type of vehicle you have. Modern vehicles tend to use sealed, filter-less pumps with screens at the pickup and a filter along the fuel line. These pumps are designed not to need maintenance and will need to be replaced if they fail.
Electric Fuel Pumps
Electric fuel pumps are the most common type used at gas stations and in vehicles. They are located inside the vehicle fuel tank and use electricity to deliver the fuel from the tank to the engine. They come in three basic types:
- In Tank Fuel Pumps: These make very little vibration or noise. Being submerged in fuel also prolongs their life. They are cooled and lubricated by constant contact with fuel in the tank.
- In Line Fuel Pumps: These are the lowest cost and are fairly easy to install. They should be mounted no more than two feet from the gas tank and close to the level of the bottom of the tank.
- SU Electric Pumps: These are mainly found on larger cars. They have inlet and outlet pipes side by side. One type has a double electromagnet, which is a large black cylindrical part.
Manual Fuel Pumps
Manual fuel pumps are hand-operated and require manual effort to dispense fuel. They are commonly used at modern gas stations and in older vehicles. They have different mechanisms, such as rotary and semi-rotary hand pumps, which work by turning a handle to transfer the fuel.
Digital Fuel Pumps
Digital fuel pumps have electronic components and digital screens to select the fuel type and payment method. They automatically track fuel usage and make reports, which can save time and boost productivity.
Fuel Filters
Fuel filters capture impurities and contaminants in the fuel before it reaches the engine. There are several types of fuel filters:
- Cartridge fuel filters: These are similar to spin-on fuel filters but are encased in a plastic or metal casing. They are usually located in the engine compartment and can be easily replaced.
- Metal mesh fuel filters: These are not as common as other types of fuel filters. They filter out large particles such as dirt, rust, and debris that enter the fuel system and prevent them from clogging the fuel lines.
- Paper filters: Also referred to as cellulose filters, these are usually disposable. They should not be used with methanol or fuels containing more than 20% ethanol.
- Stainless-steel filters: These filters are compatible with all fuels and can typically be cleaned and reused.
- Micro Glass filters: These are for post-pump use only and are disposable.
It is important to regularly maintain and replace your fuel filter to avoid engine damage and expensive repairs.
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Disconnect the battery and relieve pressure in the fuel system
Disconnecting the battery and relieving pressure in the fuel system is an important step when working on the fuel pump, fuel injectors, and other related components. This is because the system operates under high pressure, even when the engine is shut off. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this safely:
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Locate the battery in the vehicle's engine bay or trunk. It will look like a black box with two posts sticking out. Identify the positive (+) and negative (-) terminal posts. Using a wrench, loosen the nut connecting the cable to the negative post and disconnect the cable. This will prevent sparks that could ignite fuel and fuel vapors.
Step 2: Locate the Schrader Valve
Look for the Schrader valve on the fuel rail, usually on the top or passenger side of the engine. It resembles the air valve on a bicycle tire and may have a small black plastic cap. Unscrew the cap if there is one.
Step 3: Relieve Pressure
Place a rag over the Schrader valve to catch any fuel that may squirt out during depressurization. Then, use a small screwdriver to push the valve inward until fuel stops flowing through. Replace the cap once the system is depressurized.
Step 4: Loosen Fuel Filler Cap
Always loosen or remove the fuel filler cap when working on the fuel system. This will relieve pressure buildup in the tank.
Step 5: Optional - Use a Vacuum Pump
If your vehicle has a vacuum-operated fuel pressure regulator, you can connect a hand-operated vacuum pump to the top of the pressure regulator to further relieve pressure.
Step 6: Clean the Fuel Pump and Filter
Now that the pressure is relieved, you can proceed with cleaning or replacing the fuel pump and filter. For electric fuel pumps, clean the filters by washing them with fresh petrol and a clean, lint-free rag. Do not remove the gauze filter; clean it in position. If you have a manual pump, you may be able to open it to clear debris from the internal filter.
Remember to exercise caution and refer to your vehicle's owner's manual or a service manual for specific instructions and safety precautions for your make and model.
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Remove the filter from the fuel lines
To remove the filter from the fuel lines, start by locating the fuel filter. The location of the fuel filter varies depending on the car's make and model. Refer to your owner's manual for the specific location. Once you've found the fuel filter, jack up your car if necessary to access it. Place jack stands under the car for support and safety.
The next step is to disconnect the fuel lines from the filter. Note which pipe is which to ensure proper reconnection later. Have two old pencils or rubber bungs ready to stop petrol from gushing out of the disconnected fuel pipes. If your pump is an SU mechanical pump, mainly found in British-built cars, there are two main types: AUF 800 and AUF 700. The AUF 800 has inlet and outlet pipes side by side on top, leading in opposite directions. To remove the filter, take out the right-angled 'elbow' connectors by removing the metal ring fixed by two screws. For the AUF 700, simply remove the top, as it is removable.
For other types of pumps, you may need to remove a central screw or nut from the top of the fuel pump housing to access the filter. Some pumps have a cylindrical filter housing on the top that you can unscrew by hand. Others may use pipe clips to hold the cover in place, so loosen the screws with a screwdriver or pull them off with pliers.
After removing the necessary parts, you can now take out the filter. Be careful not to damage the filter or the surrounding components. Place a bucket or jar under the filter to catch any remaining fuel. Now you can proceed to clean or replace the filter as needed. Remember to work quickly, as the rubber sealing ring under the pump elbow swells up when exposed to air for too long.
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Clean the filter with a solvent or fresh petrol
If you're looking to clean the filter on your fuel pump with a solvent or fresh petrol, there are a few methods you can use. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Identify the Type of Fuel Pump
Before you begin cleaning, it's important to identify the type of fuel pump you have. Most modern vehicles use sealed, filter-less pumps with screens at the pickup and a filter along the fuel line. Older vehicles may have manual pumps that can be opened to access the filter. Electric fuel pumps are also common and are often found at the back of the car, close to or immersed in the fuel tank. Knowing the type of fuel pump will help you determine the best cleaning method.
Step 2: Prepare the Work Area
Safety should be your top priority when working with fuel pumps and solvents. Choose a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk of inhaling fumes, and always disconnect the battery before servicing an electric pump to prevent any accidental sparks that could ignite spilled petrol. Have a container ready to catch any spills or drips during the cleaning process.
Step 3: Access the Filter
The next step is to access the filter. For some fuel pumps, you may need to remove the pump or loosen certain parts to reach the filter. Refer to your vehicle's user manual or seek guidance from a professional if you're unsure about the disassembly process. Remember that some filters, such as the gauze-type, should not be removed and should be cleaned in their mounted position.
Step 4: Clean with Solvent or Fresh Petrol
Now comes the cleaning part. If you're using a solvent, there are a few options. Fuel system cleaners are chemical mixtures that can be added to the fuel tank to dissolve carbon deposits and impurities as the fuel flows through the filter. Organic solvents like acetone or ethanol can also be used by removing the filter element and soaking it in the solvent before reinstalling. Alternatively, if you prefer to use fresh petrol, you can brush away dirt and debris with a small paintbrush dipped in petrol, allowing the debris to cling to the bristles.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
Once the filter is clean, carefully reassemble the fuel pump, ensuring that all connections are secure and correct. Refer to your vehicle's manual or a trusted mechanic if you're unsure about the reassembly process. After reassembly, start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes to test the pump and filter. Listen for any unusual noises, and pay attention to how the engine is running.
Remember to dispose of any solvents or petrol-soaked materials properly and in accordance with local regulations. Always put safety first and consult a professional if you have any doubts about the cleaning or maintenance of your fuel pump and filter.
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Reinstall the filter and reconnect the battery
To reinstall the filter, first mount the fuel filter in the vehicle. Use a ratchet and socket to tighten down any fasteners holding the fuel filter bracket or retaining clamp in place. Reinstall the lines or hoses onto the fuel filter by hand. If the filter has an arrow on it, make sure it is pointing toward the front of the vehicle. Secure the fuel filter to the fuel lines using flare nuts, quick-connect fittings, or rubber hoses and clamps.
Next, restore fuel pressure by reinstalling the fuse or relay as needed. Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle. Start the engine and make sure there are no fuel leaks.
To reconnect the battery, first identify the positive and negative terminals. The positive terminal is marked with a "+" sign and the negative with a "-" sign. Reattach the battery cable to the positive terminal post using a wrench. Then, reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
Finally, check to see if the pump motor is functional. Turn on the ignition switch and listen closely to the sound of the pump motor. The first time you turn on the ignition switch, the Engine Control Unit (ECU) energizes the pump motor to pressurize the fuel line, and it will then be turned off once the fuel line is pressurized. Therefore, you may not hear any sound from the pump motor when turning on the ignition switch subsequently.
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Frequently asked questions
Check your manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule in the back of your owner's manual.
The fuel filter is usually located somewhere along the high-pressure line, which is located underneath the vehicle, close to the fuel tank. Alternatively, it could be located underneath the hood, near the engine.
You will need a few tools, including flare nut wrenches, a fuel line disconnect tool, and a screwdriver, among others.
You can do this by removing the fuel pump fuse or relay and running the vehicle until it dies from a lack of fuel.
