Fuel filter replacement?

[Staceman1]

Hey guys!

I know the filter connects to the tank, so do I have to drop the tank?

.... and will this be easy?

[Bear]

I did my '96 without lowering the tank (it was tight). once I got the hold down bolt out I could maneuver the filter to get at the press together line retainers. If you do need to lower the tank, I suggest doing it with very little fuel in the tank, rear axle on jack stands or ramps, and then using a floor jack and a piece of plywood on top of the jack foot (to distribute the weight) jack the plywood up to put pressure on the tank, loosen the hold down straps on the tank and lower the tank just enough to get working room ( I did this procedure to replace a fuel pump and it worked fine).

[webbee]

Depends on your year. 3ed gen vans (1996-2000) the filter is on top of the tank and are replaced as Bear has described. 4th gen (2001-2006) has it inside the tank, attached to the fuel pump and the tank has to come out to service the filter/pump. I can't comment on 2nd or 1st gen vans.

[RIP]

So on the newer models, unlike previous gens, you have to drop the engine a few inches to change a water pump plus you have to drop the gas tank for filter changes. What's next, hardwired headlamps or frame integrated radiators? And Chrysler wonders why they consistantly get waxed by import sales.

Then again it makes DIYers all that more determined to keep away from Chrysler dealerships.

[webbee]

Originally Posted by RIP

...Then again it makes DIYers all that more determined to keep away from Chrysler dealerships.

Sooooo true.

[Bear]

Do not be too hard on the domestics, my'88 BMW 750 has two fuel pumps, both in the bottom of the tank (say drain to remove the pumps) as do many of the current BMW models. Also the brakes and load leveling on my car are hydraulic, not pneumatic so the PS pump does steering, brakes through a servo (no pneumatic booster) and rear load leveling, the struts are controlled by accumulators (one for each side) and the struts at replacement are, through an after marker source $350 each.

[Staceman1]

Sorry, mines a 97. I checked under the van today and It looks preaty easy..
Thanks for the imput.

I make headlamps for most of the main domestic and import vans and such at the factory I work at.

Chrysler accually keeps up well with the imports. Ford and chevy are not even close in sales as far as how many headlamps are produced.

Toyota vans seem to be the best.

And as far as complicated... I had to disconnect a motor mount and tilt the engine over on its side to change a "spark plug" on a tourus wagon!!!

[Staceman1]

replaced it, and for the record, I HAD to remove the gastank!

and the filter bolt was way too rusty !