depresurize fuel system on 02 Protege?

[mnwalleye]

I think I found the fuel filter on my Protege located in front of the firewall. 2 hoses coming out but before I touch it, I want to know how do you depressurize the system? Also local parts stores don't seem to stock the fuel filter so I have to get it on the interner go to the dealer I guess.

Thanks,

MN Walleye

[Flash75]

1. Remove the fuel-filler cap and release the pressure in the fuel tank.
2. Remove the fuel pump relay. (It is in the under hood relay/fuse box)
3. Start engine.
4. After the engine stalls, crank the engine several times.
5. Turn the ignition switch off.
6. Install the fuel pump relay.

This information was taken from the 02 workshop manual. I haven't tried it so let us know if it works and any related problems you have.

Clifton

[rjitzsu]

that's not the fuel filter. that's part of the evap system.

the only "servicable" filter on your protege is in the tank, on the pump.

[mnwalleye]

thanks rjistzsu, so maybe that's why most car part stores don't stock them. Probably assume most people will have the dealer change them.

thanks again,

MNWalleye

[Doug Tatham]

The filter inside the tank is actually just a screen. Why do you want to change the filter? If it feels like you aren't getting gas to the engine and you have to mash the accellerator just to barely make it move, the fuel pump is probably going out. They last around 130,000 miles or 5 years. The pump is under the back seat and fairly easy to change out.

[mnwalleye]

Thanks Doug, I see it now, right in the middle under the seat under the the flap. Looks like it's held in with 4 phillips screws. Reason why I wanted to change the filter was someone was telling me that it's a good idea to replace them every 30-40k so as to make the pump last longer. Also being my daughters car with about 70k on it,(bought used) I don't know if it was ever replaced and she is saying it cranks a little longer them normal sometimes to get it started. New plugs and clean air filter, looks like it was well maintained. Dealer wants $70.00 plus parts to replace the filter.

MN Walleye