Ok - I went for it and decided to replace the fuel filter (3.4l w/155k miles). Figured it would be a 30min job. Turns out the filter was original (still undercoated to the frame rail), and someone down the line had tried to replace it - but rounded off the rear compression nut! After busting my knuckles and cursing so bad my neighbors ran away, the job is done. I have to admit though - my T does run a lot better <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

I need to replace mine in the near future and was wondering how much fuel ended up spilling? Did you have to bleed the pressure off of the system? <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

You must bleed off the pressure before working on the fuel lines. To do this, remove your gas cap, then disconnect the fuel pump relay (green relay behind the glove box), and start the engine and let it stall. Mine stalled as soon as it started, and I ended up loosing about 3/4 gallon of gas. I found that jacking up the front end slowed the fuel stream a little. Also, be sure to have a 14mm flare nut wrench, and a thin adjustable wrench helped a lot too to hold the filter steady.

Mine sucked as well.

Hey guys, for what it's worth... what I heard about those stubborn damn fuel filters was "not to worry" about them direct from the Stealership. Supposedly, they're a "lifetime" filter and don't need to be replaced .. I had asked at the dealership how much it would cost to do (since I heard what a Bi#tch it was to do myself). The service manager said the "can" be done, but I guess even the guys at the dealership have a hell of a time doing them as well. Just my 2 cents worth here ... good luck to y'all. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

While I've heard the same from the stealership, I've heard plenty of stories from folks on here getting better performance after replacing... Especially from the older rigs. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

I agree - I immediately noticed much better performance - especially mid and higher RPM. There was also a noticable change in throttle tip in too.

How often does this need done? I did mind 40K miles ago.

My very trusted private non-dealership local mechanic says he does not touch the fuel filter until 100K. I asked him to do it and he turned down the job - said save my $$$. This guy specializes in Japanese imports only - I am in the Detroit area so finding a good import mechanic is darn near impossible, he could name his price and get it so I trust his advice a lot.

My rig is going on 9 years old, even with only 75K I am wondering if the old age is reason enough to do this? No way I will do it myself after hearing all the horror stories. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shiner.gif" alt="" />

FYI - my wife's Volvo AWD wagon (very nice BTW) features NO TOOL fuel filter replacement. You press 2 little plastic connectors and off it pops. You don't have to bleed the pressure out first either; only lose a few Oz. of fuel.

I think they should give Volvo engineers the Nobel prize for this. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

Did you see the concept car Volvo had at last year's Detroit Car Show? The engine compartment was essentially sealed with a display on the dash telling you when to take it to the mechanic. They were trying to appeal to women...