Tank Fuel Filter
 

How do I R & R the fuel filter in the fuel tank of a '80 300SD? Since the fuel tank is inside the trunk, is there a panel in the floor that can be removed to access the fuel filter or must I remove the tank?
The reason I think it might be partially plugged is that the car acts like it out of fuel when low on fuel (but not empty) but runs fine when tank is 1/4 full or more. It used to run OK until all 25 gallons was consumed. Car has 235k miles and as far as I know the filter was never replaced. ~~~~~~~~ P E H ~~~~~~~~

This is a plastic mesh SCREEN & not a filter that should ever need replaced! The screen is under the car & the fuel feed line is screwed into it. IF it's very dirty then it might need to be removed for cleaning.

M.B. Doc:

I found the fuel tank filter (screen) where you said it was. When I drained the fuel by taking off the hose to the fuel feedline, the fuel ran out fast until it got down to the last few gallons. Then it came out slowly with bubbles between the squirts of fuel. This simulates the way the engine ran when low on fuel but not empty.

I was lucky, the fuel strainer came out when turning the 19mm hex nut on the fuel hose. The strainer was very dirty so I cleaned it in the ultrasonic cleaner and then used an air nozzle to get it clean as new. I put my fingers up into the tank and I couldn't feel any dirt or gooey substances. That screen has been in there for 21 and 235K miles.

I'm sure that will solve the problem but it will be a while until I drive it enough to get near empty.

Thanks for the help.

P E H