91 Legacy 2.2 MPFI

 

I had a oil change at a quick-lube and was told that I needed to change my fuel filter. After getting a quote from them for 100$ I decided that I would do this myself. I noticed that in the mornings I had a strong gas smell especially if I turned on the vent. I figured that the mechanic did a poor job of reconnecting the filter. I bought a fram filter and was about to change the filter and tubing (they were cracked) but could not find a way to disconnect the fuel pump (chiltons says that it is on top of the gas tank). I also couldn't find the fuse (I can not find a fuse diagram for the main fuse box). So my questions are how can I turn off the fuel pump so that I can disconnect the old fuel filter and do you think that this is what is causing the gas smell?

 

Thanks,

 

Kirk

Under the rear seat there is a connector for the fuel pump, it's on the passenger side under a little foam protector. Disconnect that, start/turn over the engine to relieve fuel pressure. Then do the work on the fuel filter.

I have changed at least 4 to 5 fuel filters w/o disconnecting fuel pump. Just be patient and do it slowly, there is not much fuel to spill out.

I personally find that the engine won't get enough fuel to actually turn over after the pump has been killed, so I pull it after the engine is already running...

 

Or you could just let it sit overnight and the fuel pressure will be pretty low in the morning...

 

As for the smell, check the hoses around the charcoal canister (right behind your pass. headlight). That is usually the first thing to cause a fuel odor in the car...

Changed the filter..

 

The advice was spot-on.

You saved me 80$!

 

Thanks-a-million

 

Kirk