Ok, this seems like a simple tasks but I am young, unexperienced, and know that I am working with a very volatile (flamable/explosive) part of my Vette. So, I would appreciate any advice or help.

The fuel filter going to my '75 with a ZZZ crate engine is a dirty brown color and I know it hasn't been replaced in at least 15,000 miles. I would like to replace it but have been hesitant to do it because I worry about fires from spilled gas. I would appreciate it, if someone could give me brief tips and advice for performing this small task.

Thank you.

Cheers
:cheers:

 

I am not sure what carb you are running but it sounds like you have an external fuel filter. Regardless, changing a fuel filter is a great idea and an easy task. First, have your replacement filter nearby and lay out the tools you wiil need, probably a screwdriver or a set of pliers (to remove the clamp). Next, I always wrap an old rag around the area of the filter to catch the small amount of fuel that will drip out. In additio, I wouldn't do this indoors if you have things like water heaters or furnaces nearby - sources of ignition. :eek: Then, simply undo whatever you have holding the old filter in, disconnect it from the line and replace it with the new filter. Sometimes the old filter bonds with the fuel line, so you may have to twist the filter while pulling it off. Tighten the clamps, and then clean up the are where your fuel filter is. Usually I just rinse the area thoroughly with a hose. Run the engine and check for leaks at the connections.

On the chance that you are talking about the sintered metal filters that many Holleys use in the metering block, the procedures are the same except always use a flare nut wrench to remove the fuel line. It helps prevent rounding the bolt heads.

Gary

 

Since you say the fuel filter is a brown dirty color, I assume you have a clear bowel which houses the filter. I remember several forum members in the past urging caution when using a glass fuel filter. Most members suggest that you discard the glass, in favor of a metal cased fuel filter to avoid the possibility of vibration or something else breaking the glass during engine operation and starting one heck of a fire. Based on these observations, don't believe I'd ever want to use a glass filter, but that's just my opinion, and I'm sure there are folks out there who have in fact used the glass filter with no problems, but personally, I just can't see the need to take this risk.

 

I agree with the guys above. I used a rag and flare nut wrench to replace my internal one.

By the way...Cool color on your '75 :cheers:

 

Dont smoke while doing this job! If you are in your garage, keep the door closed to the basement where the water heater is. MJ

 

VolVette,
All the above are very good directions and sugestions on replacing the fuel filter. I would like to caution you on one more point. You said your filter is external to the carb so it can be in an area lower than the gas tank. If this is true and you have a full tank of gas you may get a siphon effect . If this is happening you can pinch off the rubber hose coming out of the tank.
Ed

 

Also, openning the cas cap to remove any pressure wouldn't be a bad idea either.