Fuel Filter Change Question

[huvgti]

Wanted to run this by everyone:

I've been trying to replace my fuel filter, it got the rusty fitting syndrome. I used PB and a flare wrench originally. I could feel it stripping and backed off.

In the time since, I've been soaking it in PB.

What I'm wondering is this - is it safe to use channel locks on the fitting?

Here's what I've got - https://www.amazon.com/Vise-Grip-8-Groovelock-Propliers/dp/B000A0OW1I/ref=pd_sim_469_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B000A0OW1I&pd_rd_r=RC0FFW3XEZCVTT1FX3GF&pd_rd_w=8fjlx&pd_rd_wg=CD8wU&psc=1&refRID=RC0FFW3XEZCVTT1FX3GF

I'm asking because some folks recommended using vise grips and others warned about crushing the fitting. I figured these might be safer, I'm pretty sure the nut is going to round off if I try the flare wrench again.

Opinions on a small pipe wrench if the channel locks won't work?

 

[thegipper]

I ran into the exact same issue as you.

I gave up and the original fuel filter is still on there. Toyota claims it's a lifetime filter so that is how I will rationalize my failure...

 

[nissanh]

Use this:
The Original? Locking Wrenches - Tools - IRWIN TOOLS

 

[huvgti]

That looks excellent, thanks! The reviews are really positive about using it on brake line nuts, etc.

Use this:
The Original? Locking Wrenches - Tools - IRWIN TOOLS

 

[TheDurk]

Make sure you use TWO wrenches. If not, you are applying double the torque actually needed and are almost guaranteed to strip the silly nut. Ideally two flare wrenches, but that three-sided Vise-Grip looks pretty cool for use on the small nut, especially if corners are already rounded.

 

[huvgti]

Thanks,
Definitely using 2 wrenches, one on the line nut and one on the filter. The fuel line side nut is just not holding up to the torque necessary to break it loose. The rear line nut broke free pretty easy but the front is fighting me.

Make sure you use TWO wrenches. If not, you are applying double the torque actually needed and are almost guaranteed to strip the silly nut. Ideally two flare wrenches, but that three-sided Vise-Grip looks pretty cool for use on the small nut, especially if corners are already rounded.

 

[SaulG]

Remove or loosen bracket so filter will spin,lock the little nut and use flare wrench on filter.
It may be cross threaded as well..if that fails..cut metal tubing and use an inline flaring tool. Can find barbed fitting to fit filter and small piece of fuel injection hose.

 

[I_bRAD]

Use this:
The Original? Locking Wrenches - Tools - IRWIN TOOLS

Never seen that one before! Looks like I'll need an addition to the toolbox!

 

[Caden Crawford]

Mine was pretty dang tricky to replace as well! Best of luck.

 

[DK327]

I also started stripping mine and just had the shop replace it while they were installing my Walker exhaust... Oh the joys of living in the rust-belt!

 

[pluton]

The quality of the flare wrench you use has a big effect. The pre-Chinese Craftsmans I bought about ten years ago are junk, compared to the Blackhawk Tools ones I got.

 

[FlipStyle54]

Flare wrenches. I got Husky ones from Home depot and they worked great