'98 E320 Fuel Filter replacement - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

johneb48 · #1 10-19-2002, 08:13 PM

Hi Group,
I have looked for instructions on how to replace fuel filter on this car but no replies. I HAVE CHECKED THE ARCHIVES and there is nothing about how to change a fuel filter on this car. Help please??!!

John

Southern · #2 10-20-2002, 08:35 PM

I did mine a few years ago. This is what I recall:

The fuel filter is located in front of the left rear wheel. Remove the access panel and you will find the fuel filter. There are 4 hoses which connect to the fuel filter.

The filter is expensive since it also functions as a pressure regulator.

The hoses which connect to the fuel filter use crimp on hose clamps (I recommend replacing them with screw type clamps). Remove the hose clamps noting which hose goes to which port.

Remove the old fuel filter. Connect the hoses (to the proper ports) to the new fuel filter and tighten the hose clamps. Secure the new fuel filter in place and replace the access panel.

Note that when you remove the fuel hoses gas will spill out. I use a pan under the fuel filter to catch the spilt gas.

phouse · #3 10-21-2002, 12:56 AM

Is it in the same place on the E430 same year...

mbe32094 · #4 10-21-2002, 01:13 AM

Also, pay particular attention with the direction of flow on the fuel filter when you install it.

TomO · #5 10-21-2002, 12:34 PM

What about for a 94 E320? My filter is connected via threaded couplings that use washers. The washers are labeled #62 on the CD ROM diagram which says the washers should be replaced. Mine look like rubber but the dealer says they are copper. Anyone know?

mbe32094 · #6 10-21-2002, 12:52 PM

Usually when you purchase a fuel filter the replacement washer is enclosed.

domagr · #7 10-22-2002, 10:46 AM

i just performed this maint item and the filter did not come with washers, howver the washers are copper and i re used the ones that were removed again turned them around , copper is soft and may be turned to remove any indentation, no leaks were observed after the replacement

TomO · #8 10-22-2002, 12:19 PM

Thanks; I looked in both boxes (I had ordered two filters)--Bosch filters and no washers. I'll order extra copper washers just in case. I want to have them on hand before I remove the old filter.

Also, how long do the rubber fuel lines last? Mine seem pretty stiff. I ordered a replacement for the short segment that goes after the filter/pump because the connectors are so corroded. But I wonder about the lines that go from the tank to the filter/pump. Seems those rubber lines should go at least 12 years or 200k miles but maybe not?

domagr · #9 10-22-2002, 12:41 PM

funny you mention that i replaced mine when i did the fuel filter
very corroded mileage was 244,000 kilometers
this was the rubber /metal line leaving the filter attaching to the fuel line

mbe32094 · #10 10-22-2002, 12:42 PM

If the rubber hoses are still flexible and no crack or cut then, they are still good. You may want to replace also the fuel pressure check valve attached next to the fuel filter.

domagr · #11 10-22-2002, 01:15 PM

gents, it is not the rubber that is the problem th e metal part of the line that atatches to the filter corrodes and makes it difficult to remove from the filter,
there was no check valve just two fuel pumps on mine

mbe320 please clarify your point

#12 10-22-2002, 02:13 PM

I hope I don't offend anyone, but I feel it necessary to chime in with a safety message here. The reason it might offend someone is because it's something that should be very obvious to the casual observer.

I am always in a hurry changing a fuel filter and rarely bleed the pressure before removing the filter. Even if you do you will still spill a little gasoline. I always do it outside in the driveway regardless of the weather.

Remember, you are going to have GASOLINE running on the floor. Over the years many people have been killed or severely burned because it did not occur to them that the water heater in their garage had a pilot light. They spilled gasoline and whoosh!

You probably don't have a water heater inside your garage, but just keep your wits about you when you spill gasoline. There are many other things that can set it off, and you don't have to put a flame in direct contact with the gasoline. Gasoline is volatile, and the vapors can be ignited.

We don't want any of our mshop siblings hurt or killed.

Safety first,

domagr · #13 10-22-2002, 02:17 PM

great point Larry

i will add a few more things and that would be to disconnect the battery and release the fuel filler cap prior to starting this job.

TomO · #14 10-22-2002, 02:51 PM

And I also saw it suggested somewhere to remove either the fuel pump fuse or relay, then start the car and idle it until it stalls to bleed off the fuel pressure.

Southern · #15 10-23-2002, 01:34 PM

Good point Larry, its easy to overlook saftey concerns when sharing technical advice.

I would like to add that eye protection is recommended to avoid getting gasoline in your eyes when removing the fuel lines. I never experienced gasoline in my eyes but have had soap in my eyes - not a very pleasent experience.