Fuel Filter Replacement

[autorem123]

Hello!
Having super low idle problem, stalling out when I let off the gas. Replaced plugs & wires, replaced air filter, cleaned MAF (gently) can't figure out how to get the idle up?
When replacing fuel filter, as Chilton's instructs, do you have to remove the fuel relay, turn it over 'til it stalls out and truly depressurize the fuel system to replace the filter? Or, can you just pull the hoses off clamp 'em, and get the new filter as quickly as possible?
Mike - in NH 96 Jetta GL III 167,000 miles

[ctuagent117]

did you mess around with the throttle body prior this problem? theres a litle adjuster on there that sets idol. well, thats how it is on my friends 89 5.0 stang. i hope i was any help, but i remember my friend and i were so scared because the car would stall everytime we let of the throttle after playing around with the adjuster on the throttle body. hope this helps.

[CRTblurr]

No... you don't REALLY have to depressurize the fuel system...

However, when you pull the clamps and hoses off move your face out of the way or else you're going to the hospital with a face full of gas. Just scoot back and yank the hoses off and your set.

The hardest part for me was gettin the damn thing out of it's bracket.

I never depressurized mine and after I replaced it everything ran smoothly. However, I don't think the fuel filter is your real problem. I'm not sure.

[Doug Tatham]

Face full of gas!! Good warning.
You can get gas line clamps at an autoparts store, but the gas line is a somewhat rigid plastic and doesn't spring back very well.
It doesn't take much of an effort to depressurize the system and it saves you from getting gas all over the place. It takes a bit to get the system recharged with gas again (I usually disconnect the starter and turn the key so that the fuel pump turns on without turning the engine) and you can wear your battery down in a hurry.