Fuel Filter Replacement on a 380 SEL
 

I have a 1983 380 SEL and I have determined I need a fuel filter. I have done a search, and seen many postings, mostly relating to diesel MB's. I am not sure if I need to replace the pre-filter (or if there is one), and if I do how to go about it. The fuel filter is next to the passenger rear wheel according to what I have read and seen.

I need to know if there is anything I need to do besides take a few bolts off and plug the fuel line (after the removal of the cap). Does a low fuel level make a difference when changing it? Any other bits of information are always welcome.

Thanks,

Hi moparmike,

I don't think there is one. If you look in FastLanes parts catalog (top of this screen) under your model and year, they will show it if your car has one.

Low/high fuel will not make much difference if you plug the fuel line with a clamp before you open the bolts. I made one out of 2 tire pressure gauges and rubber bands at the ends.

Good luck

Reinhard Kreutzer

As a safety measure, I remove the ground strap from the battery first. No matter how careful you are, there may be some gas spillage. Be cautious when moving metal tools around. If a spark is created accidentally...........................

I just replaced the filter on a 88' 420sel a couple weeks ago, should be about the same as yours. Its located in a cluster with the fuel pump near the passenger-side rear wheel well, forward of the rear axle. You can't miss it. While you're there you should also inspect your rear differential for leaks.

Basically the whole cluster is held together by a series of clamps. I tried to loosen them to get at the filter but ultimately it was easier to simply remove them. I didn't have much trouble with spillage, but remember to open your gas tank cap before cracking the system open. That will remove the pressure from the fuel system and prevent gas from spraying all over. The filter itself holds about a liter of gas and its handy to have a small bucket or pan to drop the thing in and catch whatever drippage occurs.

If you are doing the job you might as well replace the fuel check valve as well, its only about $11 and you'll be right there anyway.

Best of luck!

I'm concerned about pinching the fuel lines on my 1989 260e when replacing the filter, as some of the lines are old. Do I need to be concerned about springing a leak in the lines when pinching them? or should I simply try to plug them?

Advice?

Hi Steven,

I replaced two of the 3 lines when I replaced the pumps on an 1987 420. I couldn't get the main line off, otherwise I would have replaced that too, but then I replaced 2 pumps and the lines made not much difference. I pinched the old one without problems. Considering the system is under quite some pressure, the lines need to be quite strong. Then again, if you worry about them, I'd replace them.

Regards

Reinhard Kreutzer

I'm going to replace my fuel filter. But reading the posts in this thread, I came onto something that has bothered me for a while.

I used to remember that when I took off my gas cap at a gas station, it would 'whoosh' as it relieved pressure. Lately, I get no pressure release at all. No matter the temp or anything.

And I've been having fuel ehsitation problems.

Should my gas cap retain pressure that is evident upon release? And if it has no pressure when released, where do you think this lack of pressure originates frrom? Could it also be a contributing cause to the hesitation?

One more thing......
 

Since i'm getting NO pressure release when I take off my gas cap, other than the caqp, I might have - I think - some sort of leak or something slightly loose in my tamk filler area. As a corollary, I went over a curb abruptly on the right side of car about a few months ago. Could have shaken something loose, as it was quite a hit. Busted the tire.

I have 77 450 SEL. I don't know how to get to tank to check. Not leaking gasoline, so it can't be a big opening - if any was created.

Can anyone guide me here, or do you think it's just the gas cap?

Hi bobboyer5,

I would start with the cap as it is only a $ 7 or 8 at the dealer. The gasket of the old one might leak. If that doesn't help, then people with more experience than I are needed to give advice in how to find the leak.
However, in my 87 there are check valves at the pumps that are supposed to let the fuel only go one way, that can be replaced and are not too expensive, There is also a fuel accumulator that keeps the pressure up which I believe is around $ 80. Check at the FastLane connection.

Good luck

Reinhard Kreutzer