I'm replacing my fuel filter today. First of all...what a dumb *** location for that thing. Even with all the hoses removed, it's very annoying to get to.

When I was removing my old filter, I spilled a lot of fuel into the engine compartment. I sopped most of it up with rags and I'm letting it dry out before I start the car to test for leaks.

But I'm still nervous something may start a fire. Do you think I'll be ok?

 

Yes. Just don't light a match to see into the dark recesses of your engine compartment.

I'm sure we all spill some the first time. Use a big rag under the filter next time.

Ian

 

Let it sit until you can't smell a strong gas oder. Then it should be fine.

 

If you are concerned about fumes after letting your car sit, leave the trunk(engine compartment) open when you decide to start your car.

 

Did both. Everything seams fine. Thanks.

 

dont prime the system when you go to start it just crank it till it starts. I just changed mine and primed it and flooded it up. I had to pull all the plugs and blow all the gas out it was not fun.

 

How often does a fuel filter need to be replaced? would that be a reason my idle is a little rough?

 

Every 60,000 miles.

If it's clogged it could cause a problem.

 

where is the fuel filter in an 80 SC

 

Left side of the engine compartment.

 

cool, well filters are cheap so I'll grab one and spend some time tonight. It's snowing here and there is nothing to do.

 

I've read somewhere that it should be changed more often or once a year if you are using fuel containing Ethanol.

 

I've heard 15k miles in that case...

 

Ethanol reportedly "cleans" any crud in the tank that's been built up over the years. Once you've gone through a couple of filters, it SHOULDN'T be an issue any longer. It's not that bad of a job once you've done it, so I've been replacing mine each spring / valve adjustment anyway. I keep one on the shelf & order a spare when I go to use it (I have one on the way in from Pelican now, along with the silicone cover gasket & new hardware, plugs, & oil temp sender).

 

How does Ethanol "clean?" I've read that Ethanol absorbs water and that can cause rust quite easily in the fuel system, thereby negating any benefit of using it in the first place. I also read that Porsche owners should not use Ethanol for fuel in any concentration if they can help it.