Thread: Changing the Fuel Filter

I am going to attempt to change the fuel filter on my car by myself for the first time, and I wanted some advise. I was planning on using the 300zx one, but would that be the Z32 one? Does it make it harder to get in? Other than clearing the fuel lines before changing it (pulling the fuel pump fuse and running it until it dies), is there anything else I should know before attempting this? I've heard it is easier to just cut the hoses at the ends of the old one to get it out and then slip in the new one. Is this the best way? Thanks!

I'll say a prayer for you.

Helps to stand on the engine. Remove intake.

Just pull off the hoses, you could cut them if you wanted but make sure the dont get too short.

They will leak a little fuel so make sure to wash your hands after, then upon restart just turn the key to the point right before it starts wait like 30 seconds or so then start the car.

Removing the intake is a very helpful thing to do here.

GL
-Wes

I didn't removed the intake, my hands smaller I guess. PUll the top line off, that was a biatch. Pull out of the metal holder bracket..I yank it up while holding the lower line.

I have no problem changing mine. If the hoses are stuck on, hold the filter and use pliers to squeeze the hoses and twist them around on the filter to break them loose.

Should I use the Z32 fuel filter, or is that more difficult to install?



Thanks Ben. I'll PM you when I plan on doing it so you know when to pray...

Why would you want to use the Z32 filter? Unless there is a compelling reason, then I'd go with a direct replacement.

The suggestion about twisting the hoses is a good one, and yes, it will spew fuel even though you relieve the pressure. I have good luck using a cheap tool designed for removing interior fasteners (looks like a forked screw driver) to remove hoses by pushing them away from the point of attachment rather than pulling. Pulling stretches the hose and makes it tighter, while pushing causes it to bunch up and loosen.

I'd cut the hoses only as a last resort because, as stated above, they may get too short. If anything, after removal, check the ends for dry rot and remove a half inch or so if necessary.

It's generally not a difficult procedure unless you have a lit cigarette hanging out of your mouth.

Enjoy the ride.

Bill

the z32 is a direct replacement. from what greg told me it filters better

The Z32 is just a little bigger, so you have to stretch the holder a little for it to fit. It's not difficult though.

If you pull the fuel pump fuse while the car is running, it will use up most of the gas, sputter and die. That'll leave a lot less fuel in the lines to spray everywhere when they are removed.

I usually cut the lines, and if they are too short afterward just replace them. You can buy fuel line by the foot at Napa or wherever.

I added about a foot of hose to the bottom to make it easier to move the filter around when Im changing it.