How to Remove a Gas Filter From a 96 Chevy Lumina

The fuel system in your 1996 Chevy Lumina uses a canister-style fuel filter with a large surface area to filter the gasoline while preventing fuel pressure and volume drops associated with clogged fuel filters. The manufacturer does not specify a service interval for the fuel filter on this model. However, a good rule to follow is to replace the fuel filter every 30,000 miles to prevent problems. Replace the filter when a performance problem or low fuel pressure occurs that indicates a restriction in the fuel delivery to the fuel injectors.

Instructions

1

Turn the engine off and allow it to cool. Remove the ignition key from the ignition to prevent accidentally turning the electrical system on during the repair. Disconnect the negative battery cable, using an 8 mm wrench, to prevent sparks that might ignite fuel vapor.

2

Remove the dust cap from the fuel-pressure test port on the front fuel rail. On the 3.1-liter engine, the fuel-pressure test port is on the passenger-side end of the fuel rail closest to the front of the engine compartment. On the 3.8-liter engine, the test port is on the driver-side of the fuel rail and protrudes through the plastic engine cover snapped onto the fuel rails.

3

Place several shop rags under the fuel-pressure test port. Relieve residual fuel pressure from the system by pressing the valve inside the test port with a pocket screwdriver. Remove and discard the shop rags.

4

Block the front wheels of the Lumina with wheel chocks. Raise the rear of the vehicle using a floor jack positioned under the rear lifting points located under the lower rocker panel in front of the rear wheel opening. Lower the car onto jack stands to support the weight of the vehicle for safety.

5

Locate the fuel filter, between the spare tire well and the fuel tank, and slide a drain pan under the filter. Slip a 21 mm wrench onto the fitting nut welded on the end of the filter to hold it steady. Remove the 16 mm line fitting from the end of the filter using a wrench. Allow any fuel stored in the filter to drain into the drain pan.

6

Push the remaining fuel line onto the fuel filter as far as it will go and squeeze the release tabs on the quick disconnect fitting with your fingers. Pull the line off the end of the filter. Slide the fuel filter out of the fuel filter bracket and drop it into the drain pan. Slide the new filter into the bracket and reinstall the fuel lines.

7

Reconnect the negative battery cable. Prime the fuel system by turning the ignition key on and off a few times. Start the engine and look for fuel leaks around the fuel lines. Remove the jack strands and lower the car.