LS1TECH - Camaro and Firebird Forum Discussion

Camaro and Firebird: How to Replace Fuel Filter

Replacing your fuel filter is cheap insurance to make sure your fuel system flows optimally and doesn't cause any issues down the line!

By AJ Mawley - March 2, 2016

This article applies to the Pontiac Firebird and Chevy Camaro (1990-2002).

The fuel filter is responsible for making sure that fuel contaminants don't end up running though the fuel lines and into your injectors. Over time, contaminants start to build up in the filter to the point where the filter cannot flow as well. This reduces the total volume of fuel that can enter your engine, which will cause fuel starvation issues and can lead to major damage. It is best to swap out the fuel filter every year to make sure your engine is fueled at an optimal rate with clean fuel. Find out how to replace it by reading below.

Camaro and Firebird How to Replace Fuel Filter

Materials Needed

  • 5/16" wrench
  • 16mm and 20mm wrenches
  • Rags and bucket

Step 1 – Prepare to remove fuel filter

Prepare to remove the fuel filter by first disconnecting the battery from your car. Do this by removing the negative (black) terminal connector by unbolting it with a 5/16" wrench. Then, remove the fuel pump relay by opening the fuse box and pulling the relay out. This will ensure that you will not get fuel flow while underneath the car. Also, open the gas cap to allow for faster draining of the gasoline left in the lines.

  • chevrolet camaro firebird 4th gen f-body fuel filter replacement removal how to find
    Figure 1. Disconnecting battery.
  • chevrolet camaro firebird 4th gen f-body fuel filter replacement removal how to find
    Figure 2. Fuel pump fuse location.

Step 2 – Remove fuel filter

Now, get underneath the car and locate the fuel filter. It is located near the driver's side rear wheel. You may find it easier to jack the car up for access. To do so, chock the front wheels, jack the car up via the rear diff, and set two jack stands under the axles.

First, push the two tabs in on the gas tank side of the filter and pull the rubber hose off. Some gas will leak out so have a bucket or pan ready. After letting the fuel drain, take your 20mm and 16mm wrenches and place them on the respective nut on the fuel line side of the filter. Turn the 20mm up to loosen the filter, and turn the 16mm side down to loosen the filter from the line. Then, maneuver the filter out.

chevrolet camaro firebird 4th gen f-body fuel filter replacement removal how to find
Figure 3. Fuel filter removal.

Step 3 – Install new fuel filter

Installing the new filter is the exact opposite of removing it. First, thread the filter onto the fuel line connector and tighten it moderately. Then, snap the rubber hose back on the other side of the filter to complete the replacement. Now you can replace your fuel pump relay and install the negative battery terminal connector again. Run the pump and check for any leaks around the filter. You have just completed your fuel filter replacement!

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