Rusted fuel line/ remove fuel filter

[KarenZ71]

Hello, I attempted to change the fuel filter on my 2004 Tahoe 5.3L. Does anyone have any tips on breaking the filter free without damaging the line? I tried but only managed to strip the nut from the fuel line. I got the quick release tool in place but didnt not sure if i broke it free either. I didnt pull on it so much because i wasnt able to break the filter free.

Thanks all for any help

 

[new2yukon]

Do u mean "rounding" the nut? As in its not hex-shaped anymore?

My 2001 has nuts on both ends, but I would spray the connection liberally with pb blaster or some other excellent product. Let it soak.

And depending on what wrench u are using you may need a better fitting one. Like a flare wrench.

 

[Fless]

Use a flare-nut wrench.

 

[OR VietVet]

Yes, a flare nut wrench or what I call a line wrench. That line is softer metal and so is the flare nut on it. If you just use an open end wrench it is very easy to round the corners of the nut. The line wrench is designed specifically for this type of work. The best penetrent spray, IMO, is AeroKroil and as directed spray it on there and let it soak for a day and maybe even spray and let soak a second day.

 

[bigdog9191999]

depending on how bad off your at now, it may be easier to cut off parts and get repair pieces and replace the bad spots, I know I had to on my avalanche when I was forced to do the fuel pump on that.

 

[exp500]

Sometimes after an overtorque on fuel filters, vise grips on tube nut and a hammer thump breaks it loose. If you get one that tutns hard all the way off, I recommend a dorman repair kit.

 

[KarenZ71]

Hello All, Man Thanks alot! All your information helped me get this thing off! Lol
I did end up rounding the edges on the fitting from the fuel line. Should i go ahead and cut that out and replace some of that line yoi think? I used vise grips to hold it and a wrench on the fuel filter. That fuel was very very dirty. I might have to change it a few times after a few treatments. Would anyone have any ideas on what kind of treatment would work best for this situation? Also i tried to start it but it wouldnt turn over. I just purchased an interstate battery and put it in. I tried to turn it over and nothing. I noticed on the dash it said battery not charging or something to that effect. Does anyone know what this could be? I had advance auto test the system and all that came back was to replace battery.

Thanks again for any information

 

[OneofFew]

I would'nt worry about replacing the nuts. Things don't have to be perfect. The no start could be a bad ground. These are know for them, there are YouTube vids on that.