4 cylinder fuel filter tips

Does anybody know anything about these four cylinder fuel filters? I found where it's located below the damn headers instead of driver side under the frame rail like every other damn 4runner. I just need some tips on how to get to it. And I'd rather not take the tire off if possible

 

It's not below a header (that's exhaust) its below the intake manifold. I take the driver side front tire off, much easier than working around the tire. Do yourself a favor and cut a slot in the top filter bracket bolt hole for installation, then you can start the bolt first and slide it in there. Yes, they suck to replace.

 

IIRC, on the 87 4Runner, 22RE, I had for many years, there's also a removable plate in the wheel well, which gives you a bit more room. Not a lot, but it can make a difference.

Something to pay attention to also: The filter appears to be in bass-ackwards. I mean the intake hose, the one from the tank, goes into the front end of the filter, and the outlet to the engine comes out the rear end of the filter. The filter goes in in a way that SEEMS reversed, but just pay attention to the flow direction on the filter. I believe it's an arrow printed on the filter, and one end of it is bigger than the other. I'm pretty sure that the flow is towards the bigger end.

Finally, remove and replace the hoses with the filter NOT installed on the engine block. MUCH easier to remove and install them that way. Also, never, ever, reuse a crush washer. An use of a crush washer, throw it out and replace it. It's usually a good idea to get a few extra for both ends of the filter before you start. If you only have one, it will likely leap off the hose and vanish. They are hostile that way. Pay attention to torque valuse on the hoses. You may need to snug them a bit once everything is installed and functional, but don't honk down on them. A new crush washer will seal properly with the default torque value, more than likely.

Yes, it's PITA to change, but it requires fewer, less often, than the ones on the 22R, which are also much easier to get to.

Good luck!
Pat☺

 

Thanks fellas, thats exactly the kinda tips i needed. Appreciate it very much