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DISCUSSION => Engine management => Topic started by: Sophia69IS on December 15, 2008, 12:12:51 PM

Title: Newb - Fuel Filter
Post by: Sophia69IS on December 15, 2008, 12:12:51 PM
Hey everyone,

I've owned my 1991 318is for about a year now, but this is my first car so I've had to learn the hard way on a bunch of things. Anyhow I am inexperienced as far as cars go. I just changed my fuel filter and my car will not start. I know this is probably due to the fact that the fuel has not built up enough pressure in the lines to start. However, what is the best way to build the pressure up?

Also has anyone tried any fuel injector cleaners that they think are good? Someone recommended me Lucas fuel system cleaner. My engine has over 200k miles on her.

Any advice or anything for an inexperienced mechanic on the m42 would be awesome!

Thanks!
Title: Newb - Fuel Filter
Post by: ak96ss on December 15, 2008, 02:48:57 PM
Just turn the ignition on for a few seconds without trying to start the car, the pump should generate enough pressure to start the car. If it's not, there may be other issues. Got a fuel pressure gauge?

I've heard good things about Lucas products, but have never tried them. I like Chevron Techron fuel additive, myself.
Title: Newb - Fuel Filter
Post by: Sophia69IS on December 15, 2008, 04:40:37 PM
Ok, I finally got it started, but it took a long time, much longer than expected.

Thanks though!

Hmm....I'm just sure my injectors could use a cleaning. I think the Lucas fuel system cleaner is like $5.99 at Advanced Auto
Title: Newb - Fuel Filter
Post by: xwill112x on December 16, 2008, 10:41:13 AM
i'd just swap with some clean 4pintel mustang injectors
Title: Newb - Fuel Filter
Post by: txleadfoot on December 16, 2008, 01:14:31 PM
It's possible you mounted it backwards.  Did you see the fuel flow arrow on the filter housing?
Title: Newb - Fuel Filter
Post by: Sophia69IS on December 16, 2008, 02:30:07 PM
I'm positive that I installed it in the right direction. I was just surprised that it took so long for the fuel pressure build up enough. =P

What kind of Fuel Filters do you guys use? The only one that my local auto place had was Purolator, this was also what my old one was so after I installed my new one I cut the old one in half to see what was inside, and I wasn't very impressed.
Title: Newb - Fuel Filter
Post by: roundel318 on December 16, 2008, 06:04:46 PM
Does it resemble anything close to the OE product?
Title: Newb - Fuel Filter
Post by: RED IS 91 on December 16, 2008, 07:04:59 PM
(http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r73/bogeyman700/fuelfilter.jpg)
Title: Newb - Fuel Filter
Post by: roundel318 on December 16, 2008, 09:31:18 PM
Nice picture :)
Title: Newb - Fuel Filter
Post by: Sophia69IS on January 04, 2009, 11:59:21 AM
Is the Bosch OEM the best filter to go with? So far I'm not a fan of Purolater, but that's the only choice for my car at the local parts store.
Title: Newb - Fuel Filter
Post by: roundel318 on January 04, 2009, 12:59:58 PM
The OE one my car has used rarely is changed, perhaps once or twice in the last 10 years / 180,000 miles.