This is a subject that has been covered many times by many different people, but I’m going to show you the consequences if you do this the wrong way.
The subject: Fuel Filter
When installing a fuel filter in your vintage Volkswagen, there are many options that you can buy from the parts stores. Many go with a clear plastic fuel filter that you can buy for under $2.00. This is an option that I highly suggest you do not use. I always use metal fuel filters on my cars because of their durability and effectiveness. Metal filters do not easily burn and are built a lot better overall.
Part numbers I have for the filters I use: Duralast FF3404DL and WIX 33031 Fram G1
Where do I install a fuel filter?
A lot of cars that I’ve worked on and seen at shows/cruises have the fuel filters installed on the hose that is connected directly to the carburetor. It works but is not a safe placement, in my opinion, due to the fact that it is a highly pressurized hose an is fed directly from the fuel pump. There should be nothing other then a hose running from the fuel pump to the carburetor.
I place my fuel filters above or around the transmission right after the fuel line comes out of the tunnel. As long as you use the metal filters this is a safe place to install an inline filter. You could also install a filter underneath the gas tank inline before the line goes into the tunnel of the car. Simply use a zip tie or such to make sure that the filter is tied up out of the way of anything that moves or couldpossibly rub on.
Attached are photos of a car that I recently saw that caught fire because of the plastic fuel filter in the engine bay. The filter simply came apart and the fuel was pumped all over the hot, running engine. The owner was able to get the fire put out quickly, but as you can see in the pictures, a little fire goes a long way.
I hope this helps you all. I don’t want to hear about anyone’s cars catching fire because of this. If any of you would like help installing a new filter or simply would like someone to look over your car to make sure everything looks safe, please get a hold of me or Jayson Ackerson and set up a time to get everything looked at.
Safe driving,
Joel