Changing the fuel filter

[bctim]

Have a 1987 Jetta turbo diesel and want to change the fuel filter.  Any thing particularly important to keep in mind?  Can't seem to find a quick "step-by-step" link but would appreciate a heads-up info (i.e. how to keep air out of the lines, etc.)
Thanks
Tim

[theman53]

The pump will pull fuel through, but I usually try to fill the filter as much as possible with diesel to help. It is as simple as disconnecting the old and installing the new though.

[noR]

I did my first diesel fuel filter 2 weeks ago. He speaks the truth.

Prime the filter if you can, I filled a jar w/diesel the fill up before i changed the filter and filled the new filter w/that using a funnel.  Flows easier than motor oil, so no time wasted waiting on it to seep through the filter.

There was no pressure, no mess. Change it just like an oil filter. spin tight + half turn or so, whatever. Done.

[theman53]

87 might have the lines instead of spin on, but yeah easy as a .... its pretty easy.

[bctim]

Thanks for the prompt help.  It isn't the spin on type (so I will need to disconnect the lines) but it's nice to hear that it is as easy as I suspected.

[Smokey Eddy]

are the mk1's fuel filters different than the mk2s?
here is your step by step procedure:

- undo the two hose clamps on the return line (the one without the yellow thingie)
- pull said lines off the filter
- pull that cotter pin out of the yellow thing that sits in the top of the filter and lift it out of the old filter
- pull the filter straight up
- turn around
- dispose of the diesel that is inside it in an orderly manner [please. Or just toss it but make sure it clears your driveway so no one knows it was you]
- grab your new one
- drop it into the clamp ring type dealie
- fill it with fresh diesel (I like to fill a milk jug at the station prior to changing the filter half full is MORE than plenty)
- put the yellow thing back in it
- put the cotter pin back in the yellow thing
- jam the return lines back onto the nipples on the new filter
- tighten your hose clamps
- drive the car


I see you're in abbotsford! hurray! Let me know if you would like a hand with anything. And come on by for a brewski and to see what im working on

[bctim]

Thanks for the "step-by-step" and I may take you up on the offer.  Nice to know your in town.
Tim

[theman53]

are the mk1's fuel filters different than the mk2s?

Yep. I put an MKI on my MKII because I like them better and lots cheaper.
MKI

MKII

Some MKII have no preheater and may look different

The MKI you fill the filter with fuel, spin off the old one, spin on new, done!