How to Replace Your Fuel Filter?

Bad fuel filter symptoms

1. Hard start. You have a hard time starting the car. If the problem is with the fuel filter, and it's not replaced in time, you may find that your car won't start at all.

2. Misfireor rough idle. A dirty fuel filter can prevent the engine from getting enough fuel.

3. The vehicle suddenly shut down. A sudden stop in trafficcan happen if you drive with a fuel     filter that is past its optimal age.

4. Fuel system component failure. An electric fuel pump can fail prematurely while trying to push fuel through a dirty fuel filter.

5. Loud noise from the fuel pump. Suddenand unusual noise can be your vehicle's way of letting you know that something is wrong.

How to replace your fuel filter?

Fuel filters don't need to be changed often, but it's important to change them before they become clogged. A clogged fuel filter can cause all sorts of hard-to-diagnose engine running problems. Take fuel filter 1r 0750 for Caterpillar generator sets as an example, it is recommended to replace the fuel filter every two years or every 30,000 miles. If you need to replace your fuel filter, firstly, you need to prepare tools, including drain pan, fire extinguisher, garden hose connected to water source, needle-nose pliers, safety glasses, slot screwdriver, vehicle ramps (if fuel filter is mounted underneath the vehicle) and the right size and type replacement fuel filter.

Relieve fuel pressure

First find the fuse or relay for the vehicle's fuel pump, unplug it, and try to start the vehicle. If you disconnect the correct circuit, the engine will crank but not start, it may also start and run for a few seconds before stopping, if the engine keeps running, shut the engine off and let it cool.

Find the fuel filter

Check the service manual to find your vehicle's fuel filter. Remove the replacement fuel filter from the box.

Disconnect and remove the old filter

Connect your garden hose to the nearest water source, turn on the water at the source, then make sure the hose is within easy reach of you. Put on your safety glasses and drive your vehicle up an incline, if your filter fits under your vehicle, you'll need extra cleaning. Place the drain pan under the strainer. Locate, loosen and remove the fuel line connected to both ends of the filter. You may need to use pliers to remove the clips from the ends of the cord. Loosen the screw clamps or bolts holding the fuel filter in place, then remove the filter and set it aside.

Install new filter

Put the new filter in place and screw or clamp. You need to make sure it's facing the correct direction, as fuel can only flow through the filter one way. Look for an arrow on the filter body indicating the direction of airflow, and position the filter so that the arrow is pointing toward the engine. Connect the fuel lines to each end of the filter and replace the retaining clips.

Reinstall the fuse or relay

Reinstall previous disconnected fuel pump fuse or relay. Then try to start the car. If it is functioning properly and there are no fuel leaks from the new filter, the job is done.