Prado 120 Fuel Filter: Diy Guide To Changing It

Changing the fuel filter on a Prado 120 is a simple maintenance task that can be done in under 20 minutes. The fuel filter ensures that the engine receives dirt- and water-free fuel, and should be replaced every 50,000 miles. This guide will walk you through the steps to change the fuel filter on a Prado 120, from locating the filter to reattaching the tubes and lowering the vehicle.

Locating the fuel filter

The fuel filter on a Prado 120 is located below the vehicle, on the passenger side, beside the rear wheel. This is a standard location for fuel filters in most cars, which is either in the engine bay or midway along the chassis rails.

Safety First

Before attempting to locate and change the fuel filter, there are some important safety precautions to be aware of. Firstly, ensure the engine is turned off and allow time for the pressure in the system to be released. This usually happens within a minute or so after the engine is shut off. It is also important to ensure adequate ventilation of the workplace, as fuel vapors are poisonous.

Tools and Materials

To access and remove the fuel filter, you will need some basic hand tools and materials, including tube pliers, a ratchet wrench, and a drive socket set. It is also recommended to have plastic gloves and rags or towels to catch any fuel that may leak from the hose and filter connections.

Removing the old filter

To remove the old fuel filter from your Prado 120, begin by turning off the engine and propping open the hood with the hood support rods. Loosen the negative battery terminal nut and lift the negative battery cable off the terminal, setting it aside. Ensure you are wearing plastic gloves for this procedure. Next, raise the vehicle on the passenger side using a vehicle jack. Locate the fuel filter below the vehicle, beside the rear wheel.

Now, you can begin to detach the fuel filter. Clamp both tubes feeding the fuel filter with tube pliers and pull them off the filter stems. Detach any wires connected to the fuel filter. Loosen the fastening clamps of the fuel filter pipes using round-nose pliers, and detach the tubes from the filter. Loosen the fuel filter mounting with a drive socket #12 and a ratchet wrench. Finally, remove the fuel filter from its bracket and place the old filter cartridge in a container.

Cleaning the engine bay

Before you begin changing the fuel filter on your Prado 120, it's important to ensure that your engine bay is clean and free of dirt, grease, and grime. Here are some detailed instructions on how to thoroughly clean your engine bay:

Step 1: Prepare the Engine Bay

Caution: Ensure that you have adequate ventilation in your work area as fuel vapors can be poisonous. It is recommended to work outdoors or in a well-ventilated space. Cover nearby car parts, such as the paintwork and plastic components, with a fender protection cover to prevent any damage.

Step 2: Apply a Cleaning Solution

In a garden sprayer or weed sprayer, mix a solution of warm water and a strong degreaser/cleaner, such as CT-18 truck wash or Dynamo washing machine liquid. Alternatively, you can use an all-purpose cleaning spray. Apply this solution generously to the engine bay, making sure to cover all the dirty areas. Let the solution sit for around 10-20 minutes to allow it to loosen the built-up grime.

Step 3: Rinse with Water

After the cleaning solution has had time to work, it's now time to rinse the engine bay. Use a garden hose or a pressure washer, being careful not to get too close to sensitive electrical components. Avoid direct jets onto electrical relays, sensors, and the fuse box. If using a pressure washer, maintain a distance of at least 300mm from the engine components. If you're concerned about the force of the water, you can opt for a lower-pressure setting or simply use the garden hose without the end piece for a gentler flow.

Step 4: Dry and Inspect

Once you've thoroughly rinsed the engine bay, use a soft cloth or towel to dry off any remaining water or moisture. Inspect the engine bay to ensure that all dirt and grime have been removed. If necessary, repeat the process or use a soft-bristle brush for any stubborn stains or areas that require additional cleaning.

Step 5: Protect and Finish

After the engine bay is completely dry, you can apply a protective coating or spray to help maintain its cleanliness. Some products recommended by Prado owners include WD-40, Lanotec, and tyre black spray for plastic hoses and guards. Be cautious when using these products, as some can attract dust and grime, making the engine bay dirtier in the long run.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean your Prado 120's engine bay, making it easier to locate the fuel filter and perform maintenance tasks. Remember to exercise caution and avoid getting water or cleaning solutions on sensitive electrical components. Always refer to your vehicle's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions.

Inserting the new filter

To insert the new fuel filter into your Prado 120, first, put on some plastic gloves to protect your hands. Insert the new filter into the fuel filter bracket. Ensure that the new filter is installed in the correct orientation. Plug the two fuel tubes into the new filter's stems. Tighten the bracket around the new filter with the screw you removed earlier. Release the tube clamps.

Now, lower the vehicle and reattach the negative battery cable. Ensure that the tubes are attached securely to the new filter. You may need to pressurise your fuel system using your hand priming pump. No speciality equipment is required, other than some basic hand tools and materials.

Finally, run the engine for a few minutes to make sure that the new filter operates properly. Then, shut off the engine.

Tightening the new filter

To tighten the new filter on your Prado 120, start by inserting the replacement fuel filter into the fuel filter bracket. Ensure that the new filter is installed in the correct orientation. Plug the two fuel tubes into the new filter's stems.

Next, tighten the bracket around the new filter with the screw you removed earlier. Ensure that the bracket is securely fastened. Release the tube clamps. Lower the vehicle and reattach the negative battery cable.

Now, to finalise the process, remove the fender protection cover. Attach the connector of the water-in-fuel sensor. Attach the tubes to the fuel filter using round-nose pliers. Tighten the fastening clamps of the fuel filter pipes with the pliers.

Finally, press the fuel primer pump several times until it gets hard. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to ensure the new filter is operating properly. Then, shut off the engine.

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