Fuel filter question.

[NickS]

Anyone have instructions on replacing the fuel filter and where it's located? I can't find anything on Renntech DIY.

[Loren]

Anyone have instructions on replacing the fuel filter and where it's located? I can't find anything on Renntech DIY.

The fuel filter is located in the tunnel area facing the center unit above the coolant pipes.

1. Remove cover for rear and center underbody.

2. Pull off ground cable on filter. Then release the rapid-action couplings by pressing on the grey surfaces and remove the fuel lines. Collect emerging fuel.

3. Loosen the large hose clamp on the filter and remove the filter element.

4. Re-install a new filter element and tighten the hose clamp.

5. Join the rapid-action couplings of the fuel lines. The plug connections must engage audibly. Then push the ground cable onto the filter element.

[NickS]

Thanks!!! :notworthy:

[Ubermensch]

Thanks!!! :notworthy:

I must be completely retarded because in my 2001 C4 I can't find this **** thing anywhere? I've removed all the center covers and don't see. It's decent sized so how am I missing it? Is it in front of the transmission? above it?

[Tool Pants]

I think a C4 is like a Boxster.

It is under the car after you remove the plastic covers. It is somewhat hidden by the black metal coolant tubes. It is about in the area of the brake lever. The large silver round thing.

[Loren]

Thanks!!! :notworthy:

I must be completely retarded because in my 2001 C4 I can't find this **** thing anywhere? I've removed all the center covers and don't see. It's decent sized so how am I missing it? Is it in front of the transmission? above it?

I think on some of the newer C4's the fuel fiter is strapped on the back of the coolant tank in the engine compartment. Let us know where you find it.

[Tool Pants]

If so, then the filter would be here.

[C4 Pazzo]

If so, then the filter would be here.

On my 2000 C4 the fuel filter is strapped to the top rear of the coolant tank (as shown in your picture). I think I used a 7 mm socket to loosen the strap and slide it out (after disconnecting the quick action hose and using a 17 mm or 19 mm wrench to disconnect the other line).

Edited February 12, 2006 by C4 Pazzo

[Ubermensch]

Thanks for the responses! It was indeed behind the coolant tank. I spent about an hour under the car searching! What's the point of a repair manual when it's wrong so frequently? This is about the third time I've reference the manual and then when I actually try to do the job the car is different. I broke a switch a month or two ago trying to remove it the way the manual suggested.

Anyway, thanks again!

[Ubermensch]

Thanks for the responses! It was indeed behind the coolant tank. I spent about an hour under the car searching! What's the point of a repair manual when it's wrong so frequently? This is about the third time I've reference the manual and then when I actually try to do the job the car is different. I broke a switch a month or two ago trying to remove it the way the manual suggested.

Anyway, thanks again!

Okay, I thought finding was going to be the difficult part :eek:

I've pulled just about as hard as I can (limited strength in tight quarters) on the quick release (the gray tab is obvious pushed in as I pull). Any tips other than pull harder to release it? Does the fitting rotate if the release is pressed? Perhaps I could break it free by rotating it and then pull it?

It sounds like people typically disconnect the fuel lines (as the manual suggests) and then remove the strap. It seems like it would be easier to release the strap so I can turn the filter and actually get the 19mm wrenchs in there...Any other suggestions on fitting wrenchs/hands in that space?

[C4 Pazzo]

You shouldn't have to pull hard at all on the quick release. Just pinch between your thumb and finger. I can't remember if you pinch on the grey part or on the sides around the grey part. But it definitly should come off easily.

Also, there is a fair bit of fuel in the filter and the hoses, so be careful.

[Ubermensch]

Very strange...I'm pressing the clip pretty firmly. I can certainly feel it denting in. On my new filter I can clearly see how pressing the button flares the internal plasic ring and opening the connection. Perhaps the plastic ring is deformed on the old one?

You shouldn't have to pull hard at all on the quick release. Just pinch between your thumb and finger. I can't remember if you pinch on the grey part or on the sides around the grey part. But it definitly should come off easily.

Also, there is a fair bit of fuel in the filter and the hoses, so be careful.