Changing Fuel Filter: Nissan Patrol Y61 Guide

If you're looking to change the fuel filter on your Nissan Patrol Y61, there are a few methods you can use. Some people suggest removing the whole fitting by taking off the two hoses and two bolts, then taking the filter off on a bench. Others suggest unscrewing the filter from underneath, being careful to do it the right way to avoid simply tightening it further. You'll also want to undo the plug underneath for the water sensor. It's recommended to change the fuel filter every 15,000 km or every 12 months.

Drain the filter at the side-mounted drain point into a thin bottle

To change the fuel filter on a Nissan Patrol GU/GR Y61, start by draining the filter at the side-mounted drain point into a thin bottle. This will allow you to collect the drained fuel without making a mess. Make sure you have a container that is thin enough to fit under the drain point for a mess-free process. Once you have drained the filter, be sure to retighten the drain.

After draining the filter, you will need to disconnect the four rubber hoses that are connected to the filter. Then, remove the thick wire mounting bracket holding bolts. At this point, you will be able to lift and rotate the unit to access the bottom-mounted sensor plug. Disconnect this sensor plug, and then lift the unit out to replace the fuel filter.

It is important to be careful when removing the connector on the bottom of the filter, as it is the water indicator and is held in place by a spring clip. This clip can easily disappear, so using a mirror can be helpful.

Disconnect the four rubber hoses

Disconnecting the four rubber hoses is a crucial step in changing the fuel filter on a Nissan Patrol GU/GR Y61. Here is a detailed guide on how to do this:

First, locate the four rubber hoses connected to the fuel filter. Two of these are small return line hoses, while the other two are larger fuel supply and outlet hoses. Before disconnecting the hoses, it is important to relieve the pressure in the fuel system. This can be done by loosening the fuel tank cap and squeezing the hand pump bellows several times until fuel appears.

Once the pressure is relieved, you can begin disconnecting the hoses. Start by blocking one of the rubber hose outlets with your thumb and allowing the bellows to expand, drawing fuel from the tank. Repeat this process for each of the four hoses, ensuring that you release your thumb and squeeze the bellows to check for fuel each time. It is important to be thorough and careful during this process to avoid any leaks or spills.

After confirming that fuel is flowing through each hose, you can move on to the next step of disconnecting them. For the two small return line hoses, simply squeeze the tabs on the hose connectors and pull the hoses off. As you disconnect each hose, it is a good idea to block the hose ends to prevent fluid loss and minimize the need for priming later on. For the larger fuel supply and outlet hoses, you may need to use a hose removal tool or channel lock pliers to carefully loosen and remove them without damaging the connectors.

Once all four rubber hoses have been successfully disconnected, set them aside and proceed to the next steps of removing the old fuel filter and installing the new one. Remember to always refer to a qualified mechanic or a detailed repair manual for the full procedure to ensure a safe and proper fuel filter replacement.

Remove the thick wire mounting bracket holding bolts

To remove the thick wire mounting bracket holding bolts, you will need to first drain the filter. Locate the drain point on the side of the filter and place a thin bottle underneath to catch the fluid. Once the fluid has drained, tighten the drain.

Next, disconnect the four rubber hoses that are attached to the filter. You should now be able to see the thick wire mounting bracket holding bolts. Use a suitable tool to loosen and remove these bolts.

With the bolts removed, carefully lift and rotate the unit to access the bottom-mounted sensor plug. Disconnect this sensor plug, and then lift the unit out to replace the fuel filter.

It is important to be cautious when performing these steps, as some components, such as the spring clip, can be small and easily misplaced.

Lift and rotate the unit to access the bottom-mounted sensor plug and disconnect

To access the bottom-mounted sensor plug, you will need to lift and rotate the unit. This will allow you to disconnect the sensor plug, which is located underneath the fuel filter. This step is part of a procedure outlined by a user on Patrol 4x4, a Nissan Patrol forum, to change the fuel filter on a Nissan Patrol GU/GR Y61.

Before attempting to lift and rotate the unit, you should have already completed the first three steps of the procedure:

• Drain the filter at the side-mounted drain point into a thin bottle, then retighten the drain.
• Disconnect the four rubber hoses.
• Remove the thick wire mounting bracket holding bolts.

Now, to lift and rotate the unit:

• Carefully lift the unit. It may help to have a second pair of hands to support the unit while you work.
• Gently rotate the unit to access the bottom-mounted sensor plug. Take care not to twist or damage the wires.
• Disconnect the sensor plug. You may need to use a screwdriver to break the clip holding the plug in place.

Once the sensor plug is disconnected, you can continue with the next step in the procedure: lifting the unit out and replacing the fuel filter.

It is important to follow the procedure carefully and take your time. Working with a helper can make the process easier and reduce the risk of errors or damage.

Replace the filter

To replace the fuel filter, start by removing the two hoses and two bolts holding the filter in place. Take the filter off and place it on a bench or another flat surface. Make sure to get a new o-ring for the plug underneath, as the old one may be damaged or worn out.

When you have the new filter, fill it with clean, fresh diesel fuel. Screw the new filter onto the filter housing, ensuring that you don't spill any fuel. Push the primer button about 6 times or until it becomes hard. Turn the ignition on and rev the engine to 2000-2500 RPM for about 10 seconds.

If your Nissan Patrol has a water trap with a float valve and sensor, you will need to disconnect the wires for the water alarm light on the dashboard. These wires are usually clipped to the frame below the filter. You may need to break the clip with a screwdriver to fully remove the unit.

After replacing the filter, it is recommended to go for a short drive (about 10km) to ensure that any remaining air is exorcised from the system.

Frequently asked questions