Fuel Filter replacement problem '05 XC70

Faust · Post by **Faust** » 11 Jan 2021, 09:52

The fuel filter on my '05 XC70 is severely corroded, and leaking. For several days I have been struggling to remove the bolt that mounts it to the frame rail. I have already tried several days of PBlaster. The bolt seems to be something between 12 & 13MM. I have even tried SAE sizes. Mostly I succeeded in rounding off the bolt. Naturally, I am reluctant to apply heat. Now I am trying to use bolt extraction tools, to no avail. Is it possible that this is a left hand thread?

ed7 · Post by **ed7** » 11 Jan 2021, 10:12

Nope, not LH. 8mm w/ 13mm head
Sheared off? - drill and extract.
Rounded off head?
The new filter will hang for a little while until you get the bolt out. Zip-tie it.
Ed7

Faust · Post by **Faust** » 11 Jan 2021, 10:50

Thanks. Unfortunately, I can't get the quick disconnects to release either. Was hoping removing the bracket and lowering the filter would aid the release.

Post by **abscate** » 11 Jan 2021, 11:14

Worst case, pinch off the fuel line, cut it, and shrink in a new fuel filter fitting on one/both sides. Dorman makes a replacement that is documented in the P8 forum - takes same one.

Post by **erikv11** » 11 Jan 2021, 12:15

Also while you are working it - rap on the bolt head with a hammer, remember to try tightening as well as loosening. Those help to break it free. Sounds like a bad one. I just replaced the factory-installed fuel filter on my 07 XC70 at 170k (!) and while it was very rusted it wasn't bad at all to remove.

Post by **xHeart** » 11 Jan 2021, 12:46

Faust wrote: ↑11 Jan 2021, 10:50 Thanks. Unfortunately, I can't get the quick disconnects to release either. Was hoping removing the bracket and lowering the filter would aid the release.

I had the exact nightmare issue. The connections on either side of the fuel filter were corroded badly. The quick connect release did not open wide enough to clear the buildup due to corrosion. You want to soak the fuel filter nipple, then twist back and forth and pull outward -- forcing a straight pull may damage the seal inside the quick connector. Be Careful.

SAFETY FIRST, you could wrap foil around the fuel filter and connectors -- layered and sealed, then use heat on the bracket mount fastener. Remove the bracket mount itself and take it to the bench for service.

Paint the new fuel filter with Rust-O-Oleum before installing.

Faust · Post by **Faust** » 11 Jan 2021, 17:09

Yes the mounting bolt is quite corroded. When the obvious socket failed to grip I mic'd it an got 12.46mm. Makes me desire one of those heating tools I am seeing everywhere on YouTube, I believe they are about $400.

Post by **jonesg** » 11 Jan 2021, 22:21

Hammer the closest size box wrench on the head and apply turning pressure as you hit it with air hammer.
tighten, loosen, tighten, loosen....it will come out.

Faust · Post by **Faust** » 13 Jan 2021, 05:24

This is not a job to tackle without your complete tool box. I tried bolt extractors and only managed to shear off enough metal that it was completely round. Ended up drilling it out, will probably re-tap it for a 10mm bolt. Whew.

Faust · Post by **Faust** » 22 Jan 2021, 15:43

Cannot say this was the solution with the "quick connects" but here it is. I took a pair of pliers and ground the jaws such that they only grasped the "quick connect" fittings. I did ultimately remove them, not sure it was entirely the pliers; but did wish I had thought of it earlier.