should I fill fuel filter with petrol?

[david151]

Apologies for so many posts, however this is my last question!
My main experience with vehicles is diesel 4x4 pickups etc and when changing fuel filters I always fill up the new filter with fuel to avoid airlocks. I just wondered if this is the best advice for all vehicles, as I am just fitting a filter for a Mazda 323 and the pipe is so small It does not even fit my smallest funnel. This makes me wonder if I am supposed to fill it with fuel?

The filter in question is a Unipart filter - 121MA0120 and I have taken a picture of it below:

http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/690/fuelfilte...

[illmonkey]

I changed one recently and read to just to the ignition on and the fuel pump will pump fuel through it. Then start it after 15 or so seconds. The first start will be lumpy until air is not in the system.

[david151]

What about getting a small medical funnel or something and filling it from the top that way? Also on the diesel pickups I have I always put injector cleaner directly in the fuel filter, not sure if this is wise with the petrol?

Thanks Dave

[illmonkey]

I'm just going on what I done.

When I took one side of the filter off, the tank emptied its self (luckily I was ready), so I can only see any petrol you put in, coming back out!

[david151]

Ok no problem I will do what you say. Was it a Mazda you changed? When I took the bottom pipe off mine I held it high and it did not seem to empty.

Thanks Dave

[illmonkey]

VW, sorry.

Good luck, you seem to have a fair few issues with the 323!

[david151]

Yes I have a few issues! Just purchased it for the GF to learn to drive in. I only paid £185 complete with £30 of fuel in the tank. 2 months TAX and MOT so can't complain! I just know nothing about these small cars and for me everything is so complex with electronics etc. It's a million miles away from the 4x4 vehicles I am used to where everything is so simple (no electronics in sight) and you have so much room.

[illmonkey]

To add: The fuel filter was under the car, so it was gravity that emptied it all over me and my jerry can. You may be able to get fuel in the filter and get it to stay. It didn't do my motor any harm though.

For a £185 car, I'd just crack on!

[ch427]

just change it, the fuel pump will prime it. As said it may take a few cranks to catch but it will.

[MG CHRIS]

No need to fill it with petrol just swap it over turn the ignition on for 10 seconds or so then start it, diesel is different you need to fill the filter up before putting them on or there is a little pump by the filter to pump fuel into the filter.