fuel filter

burples10 · Post by **burples10** » Fri Apr 21, 2006 10:03 pm

I am replacing the fuel filter on my 2001 Lanos. I looked at the how to section but I have an issue. The outlet was exactly as the how to described but the inlet is different type of fitting. I do not know why it is like this. I have looked at many sites and they all say both ends should have the same kind of fitting. Plus the replacement filter I bought has the same kinds on each end too. Here is a pic of my filter and fittings. Can somebody please tell me how to get this off. I even used my line disconnect tool and could not remove it. Thanks

BosnianLanos · Post by **BosnianLanos** » Fri Apr 21, 2006 10:08 pm

Yes, that damned fuel filter. I've been there. I've pulled, scraped, cursed, spat, and bled before that damn thing came off, but it did. Someone here probably knows some smart way to do it, but I just pulled harder than the clips that were holding it and it came off. Just be careful not to damage the fuel lines, or bad things will happen.

Once you get it off, the new filter will fit with no problem, regardless of the clips being the same on both sides.

burples10 · Post by **burples10** » Fri Apr 21, 2006 10:58 pm

Thanks for the help. I may try that as a last resort. Does anybody know another trick? Also when you just pulled until the clamps gave, did the black plastic on the inlet break off? If so, then I take it that the new plastic clamp, even though different, will take its place.

burples10 · Post by **burples10** » Sat Apr 22, 2006 12:39 am

OK well I tried the "just keep pulling method" and it finally came off. But I could not use the plastic clear clamp that came with the new filter on the inlet side. So I removed it and then it went in and clicked and is working fine so far.

BosnianLanos · Post by **BosnianLanos** » Sat Apr 22, 2006 2:06 am

Glad to hear that. It works, it just fights like hell to stay there. But at least you'll never have a problem with it again.

GsiTurbo · Post by **GsiTurbo** » Sat Apr 22, 2006 5:29 am

Special GM disconnect tool is often the best choice to remove the existing fuel filter without damaging the clip.

http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/AST-8022.html => $16.65

Tom

burples10 · Post by **burples10** » Sat Apr 22, 2006 5:59 am

I already have a couple of those tools and tried the disconnect tool first. I have one for most GM and one for most Ford vehicles. It still would not come off. And after the fact, I realized that the new filter was not designed the exact same as the factory one. So the new one clipped into the metal factory fuel PTC fitting without needing the added tab that comes on the filter. Either way I finally got it off and new one appears to be holding fine for now.