I've had the fuel filter for two years, but haven't gotten around to swapping it into my 1988 pickup. I know how to depressurize the fuel system, but the filter looks buried deep. At the moment, the front suspension is disassembled, so I was thinking this might be a good time to replace the filter. Do I need to remove the starter to do this, as the book suggests? Any advice would be welcome.

 

I had an 87 2 wheel drive and was able to change it without removing the starter, but I didnt have air conditioning so was able to go from the front. I have always been able to change filters without removing starters but it would make it easier.

Disconnect the battery as you are most likely going to get some fuel to drain out of the lines and it is possible for it to run down and get on the positive wire on the starter.

On one of my trucks, I have my back against the front tire and have to tighten a bolt facing away from it using my right arm, just to get the flexibility I need and I get to the front fuel line bolt that way. Each truck is a little different. Since this is your first time on it, it might be best to remove the starter.

I have a certain 17mm wrench that I use to get to the rear fuel line. It is thin and am able to get to it by going under the intake, it is a tight fit, but enough to get the job done. Make sure you use new crush washers (4 total,) 1 on each side of the banjo fittings.

If you dont have AC and go from the front of the motor, watch out that you dont bump into the #1 fuel injector as I have done that before.

 

OK, thanks for the ideas!