Fuel filter fittings rusted and I'm scared.
10-14-11, 07:28 AM
#1
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Fuel filter fittings rusted and I'm scared.
So recently I went to change my fuel filter ('98 LS) which appears to be the original. The fittings were RUSTY, and I tried to loosen them carefully without using any real force and they didn't budge. Now the question is what to do next. If I force them, they'll likely strip/break. Normally with rusted fasteners you'd use a torch, but you cant do this where gasoline is involved. What's the worst case scenario here? Replace the fuel lines going to the tank and to the front of the car? Cut the fuel filter out and just mount a generic fuel filter with rubber hoses?
10-14-11, 11:24 AM
#3
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Maybe use a penetrating oil like Kroil (not wd40) , let it sit and then try again?
http://www.kanolabs.com/
http://www.kanolabs.com/
10-14-11, 12:35 PM
#4
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I've got 130k miles and I'm not having any problems, I just feel that it's about time for it to be changed and would rather not wait until it's completely clogged before I deal with it.
10-14-11, 03:35 PM
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So recently I went to change my fuel filter ('98 LS) which appears to be the original. The fittings were RUSTY, and I tried to loosen them carefully without using any real force and they didn't budge. Now the question is what to do next. If I force them, they'll likely strip/break. Normally with rusted fasteners you'd use a torch, but you cant do this where gasoline is involved. What's the worst case scenario here? Replace the fuel lines going to the tank and to the front of the car? Cut the fuel filter out and just mount a generic fuel filter with rubber hoses?
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10-15-11, 09:25 AM
#9
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The reason PD asked how many miles is b/c the fuel filters on the newer LSs are made to last at least a few hundred thousand miles, or more. That's one reason for the position of where it is way up inside that nice tight spot. If you're not having problems with it, I would say don't change it. But, if you do decide to change it, use PB Blaster for the rust. Drown it with spray, tap it a bit after you spray it, let it sit for 10 min, tap it some more and spray it again. If you have to, use vice grips so you don't strip the nuts.
10-15-11, 03:09 PM
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Per a friend of mine, Techs are not replacing these because the fuel lines themself would twist and crimp causing serious damage and rendering the delivery impossible.
I would not replace unless it was the culprit, that said, there are 2 sizes of wrenches that must be used, the filter has this built into it and the fitting has a different size. If the PO had not hacked mine all up, I would have used PB Blaster, let it soak, then only turned the fuel filter sided wrench, NOT THE FUEL LINE.
Common replacement now is cut the fuel filter line, use fuel hoses and clamps to avoid damage to the fuel lines.
This is a messy job, I would assume someone has figured a way to stop the fuel from draining from the gas tank, but most have emptied their tanks right on to their floors.
Replace only if needed IMHO.
I would not replace unless it was the culprit, that said, there are 2 sizes of wrenches that must be used, the filter has this built into it and the fitting has a different size. If the PO had not hacked mine all up, I would have used PB Blaster, let it soak, then only turned the fuel filter sided wrench, NOT THE FUEL LINE.
Common replacement now is cut the fuel filter line, use fuel hoses and clamps to avoid damage to the fuel lines.
This is a messy job, I would assume someone has figured a way to stop the fuel from draining from the gas tank, but most have emptied their tanks right on to their floors.
Replace only if needed IMHO.
10-15-11, 04:48 PM
#12
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Do not use just a rubber hose and clamps. One thing, if you don't flare the fuel line, the hose will blow off with all the fuel pressure. If you do flare it, over time the hose hardens and will blow eventually. Do it right or don't do it at all. 
If you do snap the line I'm sure someone makes a fuel line repair kit, I know there is some for domestic cars. Also, the way to not have too much fuel leak if you change it is to start the car and pull the fuse for the fuel pump and let it stall.
10-15-11, 06:38 PM
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Anarchyx34, my advice is to stop by the Lexus dealer in your area and speak with the service advisor or manager about your concerns. You may be surprised what you find out, my dealer has been very helpful thus far.
07-19-12, 07:33 PM
#15
sweet jeus i changed mine after 21 years ...
this was a dreadfull job took me 3 days and had to buy flange tools fuelpipe and clips.
430.000 km it sucked up the petrol.....
But my baby glides so smooth.
I love my LS400
this was a dreadfull job took me 3 days and had to buy flange tools fuelpipe and clips.
430.000 km it sucked up the petrol.....
But my baby glides so smooth.
I love my LS400
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