shannanl

If you have never changed your fuel filter and are thinking about it, go ahead and try. I have been doing some common maintenance items on my C5 and posting here as I do them. Last time was the oil/filter change. This time I changed the fuel filter. I believe the hardest part was just finding the darn thing. It is located up in the frame almost between the rear tires. I looked over it several times. I also had a little trouble getting the fuel lines off because I believe it had never been changed and I had to work on them to loosen them up. You only need to remove one nut and the rest you can do with your fingers.

Next project will be the transmission fuel/filter and belts.

screw991le

I think some are in the tanks, so try finding that

NSTG8R

i believe it was the mid 03+ .. or maybe that was just the regulator and sending unit .. hrmm ..

VetteDawg

Shan - did you have to use a special tool to get the lines off?
The write up in tech tips says you need one.

Do you have an A4?
Again, the tech tip says that if ya do you'll probably need to drop part of the exhaust.

I was going to do mine until I read the tech tip.

mph1972

What is the best fuel filter or the one most commonly prefered?

GrayC5

Yes, partway through model year 2003 (starting with 2003 VIN 35114929 produced on 11/25/02, so I've read), GM totally redesigned the C5 fuel system. For 2003 Corvettes only, this system was designated by RPO code FFS, which can be found on the car's Service Parts Identification (RPO) Label. However, the name "FFS" has been unofficially applied to all vehicles with the new system.

For those C5s with the redesigned FFS fuel system, the fuel filter is contained in the fuel sender assembly inside the left fuel tank and the tanks do have to be dropped to replace the sender assemblies. According to the GM Service Manual, there is no service interval for fuel filter replacement for the FFS fuel system.

For those interested, you can read more about the redesigned FFS fuel system at the following link:

2003 - 2004: Service Information: Fuel Tank System Corvette and Cadillac XLR

HTH

shannanl

Yes that is true, they did change over to the in tank filter and I believe they state you don't have to change that.

As for the special tools, no you don't. I have a 97 automatic. There are two little tabs that you must depress and then the hose simply pulls off the filter. You can depress those tabs with your fingers. There is a special tool but I don't think anyone would need it. I had to work on the tabs and hose a bit because mine was stuck. After a bit of working the tabs and pulling on the filter, it came off. You do not have to drop the exhaust unless you have huge hands and arms. I would say the average man would have no problem. There is just enough room for one hand/arm but I was able to do it okay.

rws.1

If you are talking about the fuel filter with the built in pressure regulator, then to my knowledge there is only one manufacturer that is Dana Corp . All the others are bought from them and rebranded....
That according to the Plant Manager that designed it and built it....

Rhode Warrior

Wait until you change the transmission fluid, that one is a PITA.

Vetteman Jack

Probably need to do mine. Nice to know you don't really need a special tool.

leadfoot4

The filters aren't cheap!! I replaced mine last year, IIRC it was around $40-50 for an AC Delco, for a 2001 model year.

shannanl

I have that planned for this weekend. A fluid/filter and gaskets change.

I don't recall my filter being that expensive but I bought it several months ago.

If you do change the fuel filter, don't forget to release the pressure or you will get some fuel in the face. Also don't lay directly under the filter when you disconnect the lines or fuel will spill on you. I should have worn safety glasses but I didn't and luckily nothing got on my face/head.

leaftye

Use the OEM filter. I got one at some auto parts store (Checkers?) and it didn't have the indentations in the tabs, so it didn't sit totally flat. Not a big deal, but I'd rather have a perfect fit next time.

I knew mine was ready to get replaced when I smelled fuel when the motor was running, looked under the car and saw fuel dripping from the fuel filter. It wasn't too hard to replace, but I did get a chest full of gas....burns like a ****!

c5chines

I just replaced mine on my 97 Coupe.I was pleasantly surprised that I was able to back the coupe up on my standard car ramps to raise it. My big gorilla hands and arms made the job a PITA!! Took me a good hour and I had to unbolt the exhaust,but the leak is cured.$14 Fram -Chuck

Freestyler

with Stangkillers excellent advice and patience, i will attempt this tonight - im getting my filter from gene/fred beans fame for $11

fingers crossed

0EG@EnglandGreen

You need the fuel line tool for 1999 up. You do not need to drop your exhaust on a A4. Biggest problem is getting a little fuel in your face (be careful).

JRS_MY_C5

How do you release the pressure?

Boob

Undo the gas cap and let it sit for a while without turning the key to the "on" position.

Cajundude

The filter is very easy to replace. Look here.

0EG@EnglandGreen

Unscrew the small cap on the drivers side fuel rail and press the center of the schrader valve. It looks like a bicycle tyre valve.

Removing the gas cap will not do anything.

EG