I just replaced my fuel filter and after reading a few posts about it being a nightmare I was pleasantly surprised when it was fairly easy. The trick I found was to jack up the left front and take that wheel off. Then I could get to all the bolts that I couldn't get to from above through the wheel well (just peel back the rubber shielding). Took less than an hour (and I even put in on backwards at first). BTW, this is on a 2.7 Tacoma...not sure if this technique applies to other vehicles.

Tom

 

Hello. I tried the same approach as is sounds like you did when trying to change mine, and I still got nowhere. I was only trying to change it thinking that it would be a good idea as routine maintenance. I had the driver's side front tire off, rubber peeled back, all of that.....but never got to it. Maybe I threw in the towel too early, it was a VERY hot day last summer when I tried. I also have a 2.7L, 2001 tacoma. Any obvious tips that I might have not tried? thanks.

 

Hmmm... all I needed was 3" and 6" extension bars, open end wrenches, and a universal joint. I first disconected the lines (the rear line from the wheel well and the front line from above) then got the two bracket bolts from the wheel well. Where are you hanging up?

Tom

 

I'll have to revisit the problem. Like I said, it was a hot day last summer and I needed only a small excuse to quit. I still have the fuel filter in one of my stowaway compartments, so maybe I'll try again someday. Thanks for the info! Ed