Replacing Fuel Filter On '95 Gl1500: Step-By-Step Guide

Changing the fuel filter on a 95 GL1500 is a fairly simple task. It is a regular maintenance item and a good way to protect your carburetors. There are a few choices when it comes to fuel filters. You can opt for OEM Honda replacement fuel filters or Emgo fuel filters, which are cheaper but have had serious quality control issues in the past.

To change the fuel filter, you will need to remove the seat, the radio shelter, and the fairing pockets to access the fuel filter. You will also need to disconnect the ignition switch cover and the left and right top inner covers. It is important to work in a well-ventilated area and to avoid any sources of ignition when working with the fuel system. Additionally, you will need to relieve the pressure in the fuel line and disconnect the fuel lines from the fuel filter.

Remove the seat

To remove the seat of a 95 GL1500, you will need to first put the bike on its centre stand and ensure you have a clear space on both sides of the bike. You will be working on both sides of the bike throughout this process.

Now, carefully remove the seat. Then, remove the ignition trim by lifting it at the rear—it is fastened just like the side panels. Next, remove the filler panels near the handlebars by moving the handlebar back and forth to wiggle these pieces out. There is one tab at the top (narrow) end and a couple at the side.

To remove the shelter top, open the fuel filler door and locate the two white clips inside. These clips unlock the top piece from the faux tank piece. Then, remove the two 10mm acorn nuts at the back of the faux tank under the front of the seat.

Finally, carefully lift the shelter top and set it back a bit so you have access to the filter box.

Remove the radio shelter

To remove the radio shelter from a 95 GL1500, follow these steps:

Firstly, remove the seat. You should be familiar with this process, but if not, refer to the procedure for removing and replacing the seat. Next, remove the soft cover from the left fairing pocket, and then remove the four screws holding the pocket in place. Now, lift the pocket out of the fairing. If your pocket has a 12-volt outlet, disconnect it, or let the pocket hang by the wires.

Unlock and remove the hard cover from the right fairing pocket. Again, remove the four screws holding the right fairing pocket in place. If your GL1500 is an SE, you will need to remove the set screw for the foot warmer knob and then pull the knob off to get the pocket out. Now, remove the pocket from the fairing.

The next step is to remove the ignition switch cover. Do this by gently pulling up at the bottom until the posts disengage from the rubber grommets. Then, release the tabs at the top and remove the cover.

Now, we will remove the left top inner cover. To do this, pull the tab free at the rightmost edge, and then pull each tab free in sequence until you get to the front tab. Be careful not to break this tab as it locks in place. Remove the right top inner cover in the same way as the left.

Open the fuel filler door and identify the two plastic locking tabs near the front of the opening. Rotate these tabs to unlock the radio shelter. Using a 10mm wrench or socket, remove the two acorn nuts holding the back end of the radio shelter in place. Now, lift the back end of the radio shelter free of the studs.

Release the tabs at the front left and right sides of the radio shelter from the fairing. Lift the radio shelter and turn it upside down. You will see the wires connecting the radio to the motorcycle. Lift the rubber boot to expose the connectors for the radio. Depress the locking tabs on each connector and pull it free from the radio. Pull on the connector, not the wires. The antenna does not have a locking tab, so just pull it free.

Now, you can remove the radio shelter from the bike and set it down on a soft surface, such as a carpet.

Disconnect the fuel lines

Disconnecting the fuel lines is a crucial step in changing the fuel filter on a 95 GL1500. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it safely and effectively:

Place the GL1500 on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Ensure that you have adequate ventilation in your work area and remove any sources of ignition, such as cigarettes or open flames, to mitigate the risk of fire or explosion.

Locate the fuel lines connected to the fuel filter. You will need to squeeze the hose clamps using needle-nose pliers and slide them down the fuel lines, away from the filter. This will loosen their grip on the fuel lines. Be cautious, as fuel may spill from the lines when they are removed.

Prepare for a small amount of fuel to spill by placing a shop towel or a piece of cloth underneath the filter to absorb any spills. This will help contain the spill and make cleanup easier.

With a gentle pulling and twisting motion, carefully pull the fuel lines free from the filter, one at a time. Again, be prepared for a small amount of fuel to spill from the lines or the filter itself when they are detached.

Once the fuel lines are disconnected from the old fuel filter, you can proceed to install the new filter. Ensure that you follow the correct fuel flow direction, indicated by an arrow on the outside of the filter casing. Push the fuel lines onto the new filter, making sure they are securely attached.

After installing the new fuel filter, use needle-nose pliers to move the hose clamps back to their original position, securing the fuel lines in place. Clean up any spilled fuel immediately to avoid any safety hazards.

It is important to note that you should never pull on the wires when disconnecting electrical connectors. Always pull on the connector itself. Additionally, be cautious when working with fuel lines, as they may be under pressure. Always relieve the pressure in the fuel lines before attempting to disconnect them.

Remove the old fuel filter

To remove the old fuel filter from your 95 GL1500, you will first need to gather the necessary tools and safety equipment. Working with the fuel system will expose you to flammable fuel and fuel vapors, so ensure there are no sources of ignition in your work area, maintain good ventilation at all times, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. You will also need needle-nose pliers, a 10mm wrench or socket, and a shop towel to catch any spilled fuel.

Now, follow these steps:

• Remove the seat.
• Remove the radio shelter from the bike to access the fuel filter. Start by removing the soft cover from the left fairing pocket, then remove the four screws holding the pocket in place.
• Lift the pocket out of the fairing. If your pocket has a 12-volt outlet, disconnect it or let the pocket hang by the wires.
• Remove the four screws holding the right fairing pocket in place.
• If your GL1500 is an SE model, remove the set screw for the foot warmer knob, then pull the knob off to remove the pocket.
• With a gently pulling and twisting motion, pull the fuel lines free from the filter, one at a time. Be prepared for a small amount of fuel to spill from the filter and/or the fuel lines.
• Using needle-nose pliers, squeeze the hose clamps and slide them down the fuel lines away from the filter.
• Remove the filter.

At this point, you can proceed to install the new fuel filter. Remember to always exercise caution when working with flammable substances and consult a professional mechanic if you are unsure about any steps in the process.

Install the new fuel filter

To install the new fuel filter on your 95 GL1500, you will need to first put a shop towel underneath the new filter to catch any spilled fuel. Then, follow these steps:

Installing the New Fuel Filter

• Ensure the arrow on the new filter's casing points towards the front of the bike. This arrow indicates the correct fuel flow direction.
• Push the fuel lines onto the new filter, making sure they are pushed all the way in.
• Use needle-nose pliers to move the hose clamps back to their original position.
• Clean up any spilled fuel with a fresh towel.
• Start the motorcycle and let it run for several minutes.
• Closely examine the fuel lines and new filter for any leakage. If everything looks good, remove the towel and refasten the rubber retaining strap to its original position.
• Do not leave fuel-soaked rags inside your work area or throw them away immediately. Take them outside and let them dry before disposing of them.

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