Fuel Filters
The fuel filter on fuel injected cars and trucks are typically located in the engine compartment or can be located under the vehicle on the frame and are a large canister that can handle fuel pressures exceeding 100psi. A typical fuel filter has a hose coming out of ether end and may be clamped, threaded or have special fittings to ensure reliable connection to the fuel system. A fuel filter for carbureted engines can be located at the inlet of the carburetor or the filter or may be in the fuel feed hose and will be a clear plastic type.
Fuel filters are designed to trap dirt, water and other harmful contaminants that may cause problems with fuel systems. This is exceptionally important when dealing with todays s fuel injected cars and trucks as even a microscopic particle or a minimal amount of water will contaminate your fuel injectors, causing hundreds of dollars in repairs. The typical maintenance recommendation for carbureted cars is to replace the fuel filter once a year. On cars with fuel injection, most manufacturers only recommend replacing the filter after the first 100,000 mile. However, most service professionals believe its best to replace the fuel filter every two years or 24,000 miles.
A contaminated filter will put undue pressure on the electric fuel pump, eventually wearing out the pump prematurely, or worse let contaminates get to the fuel injectors. Spending a few extra dollars every few years will save you hundreds in future repair costs. fuel filter replacement is fairly easy and is something you can do yourself! But be careful as on fuel-injected cars, the fuel system remains under pressure even with the car off! In any case gas is highly flammable, so if you do decide to change your own fuel filter or work around fuel, do not use an electric droplight to see under the car or in the engine compartment. Use a flashlight! Many houses have burnt to the ground from gas splashing on the electric light bulb causing a huge fire!
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