Author Topic: Fuel Filter (Read 3160 times)

sqlpython · « **on:** July 12, 2011, 02:26:30 PM »

Well the Bimmer was running just fine and then I started it up on Mon morning and it started leaking Fuel like a sieve.
Seems to be pouring out from around the Fuel filter or maybe the line entering the Filter or lastly the return line??
So as long as I will replacing both approx 10" sections of the Fabric/woven lines leading from the engine to the Metal Return line and the Filter I might as well replace the Fuel Filter.
Question being, as best as I am able to see from above the Fuel Filter appears to be in a sleeve inside the lowest point were the Firewall and Fender wall meet. Just as the lines go under the car. Putting my hand on the filter it does not seem to have play in it. Is the Filter a Force fit or is there another way to release it?

DesktopDave · « **Reply #1 on:** July 12, 2011, 05:04:11 PM »

Looks like a single nut holds a clamp onto the filter. I'd bet that's a rubber sleeve to retain and insulate the filter:
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=CA53&mospid=47490&btnr=16_0198&hg=16&fg=15

sqlpython · « **Reply #2 on:** July 14, 2011, 05:12:26 PM »

Your Right!! My manual does not indicate the clamp/bolt.
I had to stop at BMW parts locally.
They put the Diagram on the Visual for me and it is as you describe.
They had to order the Filter as AutoZone and Advance Auto did not carrier the correct dimension Fuel Filter..(I know I watched them look it up and then bought it) only to find it was 3 in in diameter instead of 2 inches diameter....
...........Also I bought the rubber Sleeve. My theory is that the last mechanic didn't install the sleeve and metal to metal vibration (bracket vs. filter) ruptured the fuel filter..

..... I will be changing it this weekend and will report back.

DesktopDave · « **Reply #3 on:** July 14, 2011, 05:25:32 PM »

Maybe...that filter does vibrate a bit. If you get salt in there it'll eat it away from both vibration and electrolytic corrosion.

I'd order it from a BMW vendor. You can get rush shipping. I prefer ordering from PelicanParts; they've always gotten it to me within four days, prices are reasonable and the parts are always right. You can also choose cheap or OEM parts from them on most stuff as well.

Car parts shops always seem to have trouble with parts, and you have no idea who made it. I avoid them unless I'm desperate.

sqlpython · « **Reply #4 on:** July 14, 2011, 10:02:50 PM »

Quote

Maybe...that filter does vibrate a bit. If you get salt in there it'll eat it away from both vibration and electrolytic corrosion.

What I can tell you is that the filter was installed 1000 miles ago in March so Salt is unlikely cause.

Quote

I'd order it from a BMW vendor. You can get rush shipping. I prefer ordering from PelicanParts;

I should have been more clear. I purchased the filter from the BMW Dealership.
Regarding Pelican, there is only one Guy there that knows Bimmers. IF he is out forget it. Remember my post in the Electrical section regarding a 30 amp relay in a 20 amp designated slot? Well that Orange 30 amp Orange Relay was Okd by the Counter guy at Pelican Parts. Stating that all Orange relays are the same and I gave him a part ##. I called back to complain but it isn't worth the postage to ship it back.

DesktopDave · « **Reply #5 on:** July 15, 2011, 06:54:29 AM »

Hmm. Filters last a long time, maybe the line was weak & just cracked? I tend to replace the lines whenever I do a filter. Twenty years is a lot to ask of fuel injector hose. I don't think you'd need the fabric coated stuff, but I prefer the OEM BMW 8x13 high pressure line, especially with our ever-increasingly high-alcohol fuels.

sqlpython · « **Reply #6 on:** July 17, 2011, 11:18:40 AM »

Well, the leak wasn't what I thought it was and the Rubber sleeve had been installed.
The filter wasn't Breached.
...The Clamp on the Fuel filters Out Hose was in place and Busted...causing Fuel to stream out under Pressure..
I replaced Original Filter to Rail and Return fuel hoses with clamps.. The original clamps were so old they had Decomposed Heads and all.. All petrified..And what a job removing them... didn't want to force anything as who knew what else was brittle.. A simple job took hours instead of minutes.. combination of rot and REALLY tight quarters..
..Replaced 8mm hoses with 7.9mm...is this an issue....
Engine purrs..better 4th gear 60 to 80 acceleration....must have been sucking some air.

DesktopDave · « **Reply #7 on:** July 17, 2011, 11:39:26 AM »

I knew you'd fix it. These cars are durable and pretty simple all-in-all. BTW, I hate working on the tank/filter/pump. BMW really crams it all in there, and it's just victimized by twenty years of road salt.

You've come a long way with that car, haven't you? Not that they're ever "done," but it's nice when you find something clear-cut to repair.

sqlpython · « **Reply #8 on:** July 18, 2011, 10:19:32 AM »

Quote

but it's nice when you find something clear-cut to repair.

Yes it is!!
This week is Glass week..

Windshield, New Rear V Mirror, Plastic Windshield Cowl, Right Rear Door Window Regulator adjust,

Maybe I can manage to do the Cabin Filter as well..smells a bit..

DesktopDave · « **Reply #9 on:** July 18, 2011, 05:47:54 PM »

I think there was a BMW TSB about the evap getting moldy in the HVAC case & making for some less-than-ultimate-driving.