How do you get the fuel filter off 2002 GMC Yukon when the normal fuel line tools won't work?

Answer 1

I have the exact same problem. Bought two different fuel filter tools, one specifically designed for the GM 5.3L and I still cannot get the filter to disconnect from the fuel line. The little tool will slide into the line but it is not enough to disengage. Is there a specific tool that I need? I have a 2003 GMC Yulon with a 5.3L "Z" Flex-Fuel (can run on standard gas or E85) engine (this problem is particular to the Flex Fuel model, the non-Flex Fuel model uses a different fuel filter). I too had this problem where the clearance between where the fuel line attaches to the fuel filter is too close to the body of the fuel filter to insert the fuel line removal tool. There are 2 ways around this problem. The first method (which is how I used to do this) is to remove the fuel line at the "downstream" end (closer to the engine) so that you can remove the fuel filter with the attached fuel line to your workbench/vice. The fuel line tool you currently have will work at that end of the fuel line. Next, cut the fuel line stub (the metal protruding from the fuel filter which the fuel line attaches to) from the body of the fuel filter using a hack saw. Then you will be able to insert the fuel line tool you currently have and remove the stub. Be sure to flush the fuel line with brake cleaner and use compressed air to be sure that any debris created by using the hacksaw has been removed from the fuel line prior to reinstalling the fuel line back into the vehicle. The second method (which is how I now do this) is to go to the following Kent-Moore Tools link: https://gmspecialservicetools.spx.com/SearchTools.aspx and in the "search" box on the right side of the page, enter "J-46363" which is the part number for the proper fuel line removal tool (about $15.00 for the tool). I still remove the fuel filter with the attached line from the vehicle (because even with the tool it is still not easy to remove the fuel line from the fuel filter) and insert the tool into the body of the fuel line connector and I can then remove the fuel filter from the fuel line. You will sometimes have to turn the tool or move the fuel line toward the filter body and away from the filter body to get the internal clip in the fuel line to release from the fuel filter. This is why I still remove the fuel filter with the line attached from the vehicle because this is no fun to do laying on your back and getting gasoline in your face while trying to get the line free.