Attempting to change fuel filter. Questions after looking under cover:

1) I will open tank to relieve pressure, do I need to do anything else to remove pressure?

2) I have filter but no new washers as mentioned in prior post, is this necessary or can I simply undo fittings and install?

3) If answer to 1 is no, how much fuel will come out and is there any way to stem flow? (Haynes manual mentions a "proprietary clamp" and my other manual states "screw-type clamp" and to avoid 2 other types of clamps that I haven't heard of as these will damage fuel line? ( I have not yet received Factory CDs)).

This should be basically simple procedure as I have done on other cars before but I am worried about not having correct items and ending up with huge and dangerous mess.

All advice and information appreciated.

__________________
2008 GL320CDI 6K
1970 280SL 112K
1982 240D 210K (Sold)
1973 220D 220K (Sold)
1967 200D 160K (Sold)
1992 400E 139K (Sold)
1988 300E 148K (Sold)
1987 300D 257K (Sold)
1991 300E 108K (Sold)
1987 300E 131K (Sold)
1978 300D TMU (Sold)
1980 300D TMU (Sold)
MBCA Member

Answered my own question. Used fan to ventilate area and just disconnected everything. About 6 oz of gas came down. Reused washers as connected but not sure about it. Also, not sure about direction. Haynes manual said point arrow/flow direction toward engine. However, flow direction seemed to be toward rear and then up and to passenger side through flex hose. As existing filter was in that direction I went ahead and installed same way.

I would appreciate someone confirming flow direction and the part of prior post relating to reusing washer(s) (I only used the rubber centered one at inner connection of banjo fitting and the silver one at the outer part).

Thanks.

__________________
2008 GL320CDI 6K
1970 280SL 112K
1982 240D 210K (Sold)
1973 220D 220K (Sold)
1967 200D 160K (Sold)
1992 400E 139K (Sold)
1988 300E 148K (Sold)
1987 300D 257K (Sold)
1991 300E 108K (Sold)
1987 300E 131K (Sold)
1978 300D TMU (Sold)
1980 300D TMU (Sold)
MBCA Member

On my Volvo's, I use vice grips to pinch the fuel lines when changing the filter. I have not changed a Mercedes filter yet and would recommend pinching the fuel line only if it is rubber - not plastic.