Fuel Filter Replacement: 1987 Toyota Guide

The fuel filter in a 1987 Toyota is located either near the gas tank or in the engine compartment. To replace the fuel filter, first, depressurise the system by removing the fuel tank cap. Then, locate the fuel filter and replace it with a new one. The new filter should be bolted to the block and the fuel hoses should be reattached. Finally, clean up any spilled gasoline and start the engine to check for fuel leaks.

Fuel filter location

The fuel filter location in a 1987 Toyota depends on the engine. If the engine has a carburetor (22R), the fuel filter is located at the tank. If the engine has fuel injection (22RE), the fuel filter is located under the intake/above the starter on the passenger side of the engine.

For the 22R engine, the fuel filter is a white plastic "short tomato paste" can with two fittings. It is located on the passenger side between the two front bed support rails. It is far back from the front of the tank.

For the 22RE engine, there is a small panel in the passenger-side front wheel well that can be unbolted for access. The fuel filter is on the passenger side of the engine block under the intake plenum. It is behind the starter (between the block and the starter) and bolted to the block.

Depends on the engine

The replacement schedule for a fuel filter in a 1987 Toyota depends on the engine type. Toyota Pickups from 1984 to 1987 were equipped with either a 22R carbureted engine or a 22R-E fuel-injected engine. The fuel filter on a 22R engine is located near the gas tank, while on a 22R-E engine, it is located under the intake manifold, above the starter, on the passenger side of the engine.

The 22R engine's fuel filter is typically located against the chassis, near the tank, or follow the fuel line from the carburetor towards the rear of the vehicle. On the other hand, the 22R-E engine's fuel filter is located in a more challenging-to-access area, requiring the removal of the intake manifold and possibly the starter.

It is recommended to refer to the factory service manual (FSM) or seek advice from a qualified technician to determine the exact location of the fuel filter and the appropriate replacement schedule for your specific engine type. Additionally, some sources suggest that Toyota designed the fuel filter on fuel-injected engines to be a "lifetime" filter, not requiring regular replacement. However, this claim is disputed by others who state that even lifetime" filters can get clogged and need replacement from time to time.

For the 1987 Toyota Pickup with the 22R carbureted engine, the fuel filter is located on the passenger side, between the two front bed support rails. It is important to note that accessing the fuel filter on this model may require removing the bed of the truck, as it is located in a hard-to-reach area.

In summary, the replacement schedule for the fuel filter in a 1987 Toyota depends on the specific engine type and its associated fuel system. Referring to the owner's manual or seeking advice from a qualified technician is recommended to ensure proper maintenance and optimal vehicle performance.

Depressurising the system

Depressurising the fuel system of your 1987 Toyota before changing the fuel filter is an important safety step. This is because the fuel system is under pressure, and you don't want fuel spraying out when you remove the filter. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Firstly, open the fuel cap. This will release some of the pressure from the system. You will hear a slight hissing sound as the pressure escapes, and a tiny bit of fuel may come out of the fuel lines.

Next, disconnect the battery. This will prevent any power from being sent to the fuel pump, ensuring that no more fuel is pumped through the system while you are working on it.

Now, locate the fuel filter. It is on the passenger side, between the two front bed support rails. You may need to remove an access plate or the starter to get to it more easily.

Once you have located the fuel filter, place a rag or oil drain pan underneath it to catch any fuel that may drip out when you remove the filter.

Now you are ready to start removing the fuel filter. Start by breaking the hoses loose, then remove the bolt holding the filter to the block. Be careful not to drop any tools on the hot cable of the starter.

Finally, remove the fuel filter by hand, being careful of the copper washers. That's it! You have now depressurised the fuel system and can proceed to replace the fuel filter. Remember to dispose of the old fuel filter properly and to recycle any parts that can be recycled.

Removing the old filter

To remove the old fuel filter from your 1987 Toyota, first make sure to identify the correct location of the fuel filter. For a 1987 Toyota with a 22R carbureted engine, the fuel filter is located inside the chassis rail near the filler neck or the gas tank. For a 22RE fuel-injected engine, the filter is located under the intake manifold on the passenger side of the engine.

Once you have located the fuel filter, follow these steps to remove the old filter:

• Depressurise the fuel system: Open the fuel tank cap to release pressure. You may also disconnect the battery to ensure there is no power.
• Loosen the filter union bolts: Use the appropriate-sized wrench or socket to slowly loosen the bolts. Some fuel may leak out, so be cautious to avoid any potential fire hazards.
• Remove the union bolts and gaskets: Take out the bolts and gaskets, being careful not to strip the threads or damage the gasket surfaces.
• Loosen the filter clamp: Use a wrench to loosen the clamp that holds the fuel filter in place.
• Remove the old fuel filter: Carefully slide the filter out of the clamp. Be cautious of any remaining fuel in the lines or filter.

It is recommended to have a fire extinguisher nearby as a safety precaution when working with the fuel system. Additionally, wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, to shield yourself from any escaping fuel.

Now that the old fuel filter has been removed, you can install the new fuel filter by following the provided instructions.

Installing the new filter

To install the new fuel filter in your 1987 Toyota, you will need to first locate the old filter. The fuel filter on a 1987 Toyota is located on the passenger side of the vehicle, either near the gas tank or in the engine compartment, depending on whether the vehicle has a carburetor or fuel injection system.

Once you have located the old fuel filter, you can begin the process of installing the new one. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Remove the old filter: Before removing the old filter, it is recommended to depressurise the fuel system by opening the fuel tank cap, as this will release pressure and minimise the risk of fuel escaping. Slowly loosen the filter union bolts, and then remove the union bolts and four gaskets. Loosen the filter clamp and slip the old filter out.
• Clean the area: It is important to clean any gasoline that may have escaped during the removal process.
• Insert the new filter: Slip the new filter into the clamp, ensuring that the flow arrows are facing the correct direction. Position the filter in the middle of the clamp and tighten it.
• Reinstall the union bolts and gaskets: Reinstall the union bolts with four new gaskets. Torque the union bolts to the specified tightness (18 Nm or 13 ft lbs). Do not overtighten the union bolts.
• Start the engine and check for leaks: Once the new filter is securely in place, start the engine and check for any fuel leaks.

It is important to note that the fuel filter on a 1987 Toyota can be difficult to access, and you may need to remove the starter or access the filter through the wheel well or fender plate access. Always exercise caution when working with fuel systems to minimise the risk of fire or injury.

Frequently asked questions