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I'm changing a fuel filter, 2002 xj8 and replacing some rusted fuel and brake lines. (failed inspection).
When I disconnect the filter, fuel flows and flows out. With other cars the flow stops after the system depressurizes.
I'm thinking that its gravity because the tank is above the filter.? Is there some way to stop the flow while I work on it? I couldn't find anything on the web.
I hate being under a car with much gasoline present.
There should be a check valve at the pump. It's either not functioning or the pump has been replaced with a unit lacking the check valve. I saw this mentioned once before, but do not recall the outcome. Maybe a search if no one responds with help.
Done. Since I had to replace a section of fuel line anyhow, I cut the line at its lowest point and connected a piece of plastic hose and drained the tank, 4 gallons took about 2 hours. Then I could work, connecting the new section of fuel line, and new filter without having gasoline flowing.
So I take it that when changing the filter under normal circumstances, the fuel flows during the procedure.?
No, it doesn't. Like i said, there should be a check valve in the pump. Just consider an accident where the fuel line is ruptured, can't have a tank of gas running out on the road under a broken car.
This looks to me like a. very dangerous setup. The boards under the rear wheels are bending and you have live electricity close to your open gasoline jug.
Sorry for the late reply. I have also had the problem of fuel flowing continuously while changing the fuel filter. RJ mentioned the check valves, but there is one at the outlet of the fuel pump that prevents fuel from flowing backward through the pump but not forward, and I think there is also a check valve at the port for the return line to the tank which prevents fuel from flowing back toward the engine via the return line so the swirl pot remains full to keep the fuel pump primed. But neither of the check valves prevents fuel from continuing to flow via the fuel outlet or feed line.
My theory is that it is possible for the fuel pump to "park" in a position that allows fuel to continue to flow through, either due to pressure in the tank or simple siphoning effect. The X308 fuel system has both a traditional evaporative emissions/carbon canister system and in some markets the On-board Refueling Vapor Recovery (ORVR) system. As these systems age, it is likely their valves can malfunction, leading to either positive pressure in the tank that can force fuel out through the pump, or negative pressure in the tank that can draw fuel via the return line and promote continuous siphon action. I always forget to try removing and reinstalling the gas cap to relieve any pressure in the tank before changing the fuel filter, but it would be worth trying.
I keep a supply of small rubber stoppers in various sizes and all it usually takes to stop the flow of fuel is to insert an appropriately-sized stopper into the end of the fuel pipe while changing the filter.
I got the new filter installed but its leaking at the downstream side of the filter and at the compression coupler I installed. Also both brake lines leak at the couplers I installed. I used a double flair kit on the existing lines. I'm getting frustrated and I have a deadline to get the vehicle to pass inspection. I have to remind myself that working on cars is supposed to be an enjoyable hobby for me.
I'm considering buying new whole lines brake and fuel line, but it looks that it will be very difficult to pass the lines under the heat shields where the lines go up into the engine compartment from under the car without removing a lot of things.
I think the car was parked in salt water puddle for a year or so.
I thought changing a fuel filter would be easy
