Changing Fuel Filters: A Step-By-Step Guide For C5 Corvette Owners

Changing the fuel filter on a C5 Corvette is a relatively straightforward process that can be done at home with the right tools and some basic knowledge of car maintenance. The fuel filter is located on the driver's side of the car, and the process involves disconnecting and reconnecting fuel lines, as well as removing and installing a new fuel filter. It is recommended to relieve the fuel pressure and properly dispose of the fuel before starting the process. While the process is similar across different model years, there are some differences, especially between the early C5 models and the later ones. For example, the fuel filter on early C5s is located under the car, while on some later models, it is located inside the fuel tank, which makes it more difficult to access and, in some cases, not serviceable. It is always recommended to refer to the specific instructions for your model year and consult a professional if you are unsure about any steps.

Disconnecting the fuel lines

Before beginning, it is important to gather the necessary tools. A fuel line disconnect tool is essential for this process, and it is recommended to have both plastic and metal options available, as they are affordable and can be purchased at local auto parts stores. Additionally, make sure you have a 10mm deep well socket or wrench to remove the bracket mount nut.

Now, let's get started with the steps:

• Park your C5 Corvette on a level surface and engage the parking brake. It is important to work on a flat surface to ensure stability and safety.
• Raise the rear of your Corvette securely using a jack and jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is stable and secure before proceeding.
• Locate the fuel filter. For C5 Corvettes, it is typically found on the driver's side, near the driveshaft (torque tube) tunnel, and mounted to the chassis with a bracket and a bolt.
• Open the fuel cap to relieve pressure in the fuel system. This will make it safer to work on the fuel lines.
• Depress the Schraeder valve on the end of the driver's side fuel rail to release pressure. Use a rag to soak up any fuel that comes out.
• Clean the area around the fuel filter to avoid contamination when disconnecting the fuel lines.
• Using the fuel line disconnect tool, carefully disconnect the feed and return lines from the fuel filter. Gently push in on the tabs to release the lines. Be cautious, as fuel may still be present in the lines.
• With the 10mm deep well socket or wrench, remove the bracket mount nut that secures the fuel filter to the chassis.
• Carefully cap the fuel lines or cover them to prevent contamination.
• Disconnect the ground strap that is attached to the fuel filter.
• Remove the old fuel filter from the vehicle.

At this point, you have successfully disconnected the fuel lines from the old fuel filter. Now, you can proceed to install the new fuel filter by following the above steps in reverse order. Remember to inspect the O-rings in the fuel lines and lubricate the ends of the new fuel filter's nipple for a proper seal.

Safety is paramount when working on fuel systems, so ensure you are cautious and methodical throughout the process.

Removing the old filter

To remove the old fuel filter from your C5 Corvette, you will first need to disconnect your battery and raise the rear of the vehicle so that you can slide underneath. The fuel filter is located on the driver's side, on the side of the driveshaft tunnel, attached to a bracket with a bolt.

Before you disconnect the fuel lines, it is important to relieve the fuel system pressure. To do this, open the Schraeder valve on the end of the driver's side fuel rail using a rag to soak up any released fuel. You should also clean the surrounding area to avoid contamination.

Now, disconnect the feed and return lines from the fuel filter. You can use a fuel line disconnect tool to do this, or carefully push in on the tabs so that the lines come off. Once the lines are disconnected, use a 10mm deep well socket to remove the bracket mount nut. You should also cap the fuel lines or be careful not to contaminate them.

Next, disconnect the ground strap and remove the old fuel filter from the car. Take the retainers off the old filter and inspect the O-rings inside the inlet and outlet fuel line ends, making sure they are still in the O-ring groove.

Purchasing a new filter

When purchasing a new fuel filter for your C5 Corvette, it's important to note that not all C5s have the same filter or the same location. Early C5s have a very inexpensive filter that does not have a pressure regulator built into them. Around 1999, Chevrolet changed to a filter with a built-in pressure regulator that is about three times more expensive.

For 1999 and later C5/Z06 models up to mid-2003, AMSOIL lists the correct fuel filter as GF336. For 1998 and earlier C5s, AMSOIL lists the correct fuel filter as GF341. You can purchase these filters from AMSOIL at a price below the dealer price and comparable to gmpartsdirect.com, particularly if you are a preferred customer.

You can also find fuel filters for the C5 Corvette on Amazon.com, with prices ranging from $23.79 to $55.00. Some of these filters are eligible for Amazon Prime and/or free delivery.

Another option is to purchase a fuel filter from NAPA, as one Corvette owner did when they noticed a loud whine coming from their fuel pump. This is a good idea if your car has over 50,000 miles on it, as a clogged fuel filter could be the cause of the whine and could potentially kill the fuel pump.

Installing the new filter

To install the new fuel filter on your C5 Corvette, start by cleaning the surrounding area to avoid contamination. Then, take the retainers off the old filter and put them on the new one. Lubricate the ends of the fuel filter nipple to help seat the filter without rolling the O-rings.

Next, carefully inspect the inside of the inlet and outlet fuel line ends to ensure the small O-ring is still in the O-ring groove. If it's not, you will experience a leak. Now, connect the fuel feed pipe to the outlet. Then, install the new filter onto the chassis and reconnect the ground, tightening it to 44 in. lbs. Finally, connect the other two feeds.

Turn the ignition on for two seconds and then turn it off for 10 seconds. Turn the ignition on again and inspect for any leaks.

Checking for leaks

To check for leaks in your C5 Corvette after changing the fuel filter, follow these steps:

Firstly, locate the fuel filter. The fuel filter is positioned under the car on the driver's side, above the transmission, and is held in place by a bracket that is bolted to the undercarriage.

Next, clean the area around the filter to avoid any contamination. Then, using a 10mm deep well socket, remove the bracket mount nut. Disconnect the feed from the outlet area and cap the fuel lines if possible. If you cannot cap the lines, be extremely careful not to contaminate the area.

Now, you can disconnect the fuel lines from the filter. You can use a fuel line disconnect tool, or carefully push in the tabs to release the lines. Before disconnecting, remember to relieve the fuel pressure by releasing the Schrader valve on the end of the driver's side fuel rail. Use a rag to soak up any escaping fuel.

Once the filter is disconnected, inspect the O-rings inside the inlet and outlet fuel line ends. Ensure they are still intact and in their grooves. If they are damaged or missing, you will experience a leak. Lubricating the ends of the fuel filter nipple will help seat the filter without damaging the O-rings.

After installing the new filter, connect the fuel feed pipe to the outlet and remount the filter onto the chassis. Reconnect the ground and tighten to 44 in-lbs of torque. Now, reconnect the other two fuel lines.

Finally, turn the ignition on for two seconds, then off for ten seconds. Repeat this process, and then inspect for leaks. If you notice any leaks, carefully retighten the connections and try again.

Remember, it is important to regularly check for leaks, as this can be the first indication of problems with your vehicle. Leaks can lead to serious issues, including braking and steering problems, and even total engine failure if left unattended.

Frequently asked questions