Fuel Filter install question

[SHO n OFF]

Finally got around to installing my new fuel filter from SHOSource. Install was easy. However, when I removed the old filter, I noticed it was installed backwards (flow facing the wrong way). Would this cause any Lean codes? My engine light comes and goes while driving, mostly comes on after I get on it a bit, then goes away. When I pull the codes, I get system too lean. I havent taken it for a drive yet, but just wanted some insight on if the filter being backwards would cause this light while pushing the car a bit.

 

[zoomlater]

I also found my filter installed backwards when I went to change it. It must have been that way for awhile since it was pretty dirty looking. I didn't have any codes and the car ran fine. If anything, the pressure at the fuel rail was low.

 

[SHO n OFF]

how would I test pressure at the rail? I took it for a drive earlier and still get the running lean code.

 

[rbruso]

To test rail pressure you'll need a handheld fuel pressure gauge. Something like this:

Sticking up between the intake snakes is the fuel pressure test point. It should have a black plastic cap screwed onto it.

As for the filter, perhaps the previous owner ran it till it clogged then flipped it to use the other side of the media?

 

[SHO n OFF]

what should the pressure be (at what rpms?) using the gauge?

Can I connect this and monitor it while I'm driving?


I'm leaning towards my fuel pump going. it does humm enough to hear it inside the car while its running.

 

[zach44102]

Stock FPR is at 39psi IIRC

 

[kevinspann]

what should the pressure be (at what rpms?) using the gauge?

Can I connect this and monitor it while I'm driving?


I'm leaning towards my fuel pump going. it does humm enough to hear it inside the car while its running.

Replace the pump. Noise = going south, especially when it's louder than the engine.

 

[jayro]

I would say to replace the fuel pump. Also, when was the last time you replaced your O2's. If they are going bad they will throw lean codes as well. What is your gas milage like?

 

[SHO n OFF]

Haven't calculated the mpg's, as I dont drive it much until I fix this problem. I dunno when the O2's were done last, but, I DO know they werent done by the previous owner (my brother) who I bought the car off of for $13.


I DO feel a slight loss of power when the engine light is on. I'm thinking do the fuel pump AND both o2's at the same time.


Zach, is the 39psi at all times or idle?

 

[SHOtime2511]

39psi is at idle with the vac line connected to the FPR.

 

[jimtash]

Replace the pump. Noise = going south, especially when it's louder than the engine.

I replaced the original pump in my '89 last year. It would rattle when I shook it.

Easiest method to changing it out is to remove the back seat cushion and cut the pan right over the tank. I painted the area and metal piece that I cut and sealed it with 3m Strip Caulk.

 

[kevinspann]

It's not all THAT hard to drop the tank - but that's when the car isn't rusty. Might need new hardware, but that's okay.

 

[jimtash]

It's not all THAT hard to drop the tank - but that's when the car isn't rusty. Might need new hardware, but that's okay.

Making an access door that doesn't harm the structural rigidity of the car one bit, nor will it collect water or dirt is something to think about. That's why they do it in many cars to begin with these days. I can replace the fuel pump in under 30 minutes and without killing myself.

It's one option worth considering.

 

[frosho]

39psi is at idle with the vac line connected to the FPR.

The vac line to the FPR must be disconnected in order to see 39psi.

 

[kevinspann]

Making an access door that doesn't harm the structural rigidity of the car one bit, nor will it collect water or dirt is something to think about. That's why they do it in many cars to begin with these days. I can replace the fuel pump in under 30 minutes and without killing myself.

It's one option worth considering.

Correct - and if the floor over the tank was reasonably flat, you could use one of the round covers that newer cars use for that hole. Pulled one out of a Lincoln LS just in case something like that would work.