97 grand am fuel filter question?

Hey, 1st time here, hope I explain this correctly. Here's the deal, my 97 Grand Am GT is starting rough. When I go to start it, it doesn't start right away when I turn the key over, you know it takes like 2 seconds, it is hard to explain. But sometimes when it starts, it acts like it wants to die, you know like the rpms will go between 0 and 1. Earlier today I coudln't take off right away, becuase it was doing this and couldn't give it gas. So anyways it is a 3100 Engine. And I think all I have to do is replace the fuel filter. Does that sound correct. My problem is though that I do not know where this is, or even how to do it. I have thought about replacing the spark plugs, I pulled one out and it looked ok, I think they are platnum. There is about 96,000 miles on the car. Mostly interstate. So if you could please help me out...thanks!!!

The same thing happened to my Honda. Not sure right now, but I think if you get a Chilton's or Haynes repair manual, it will tell you all about the fuel filter and what not.

Sidenote: I had to replace my fuel Pump as well, as i let my car run low on gas too many times - if you've done this, a nes fuel pump might be a good idea as well. I believe both the pump AND the filter are in your gas ank, which of course, you'd have to drain to gain access to.

Hope this helps at all:

Michael - Seattle, WA