Fuel Filter Question

[Redapple]

I have about 50k on my truck now. I have noticed a severe degradation of fuel mileage in the past 3 months. From 14-16 in city driving (What I do mostly) to about 11-13. I have done most of the maint type things without results.

 

1. Clean plugs (The looked good for 50k)

2. Air Filter

3. Fresh oil (Mobil 1 5W-30W)w/filter

4. Rotate tires and verify correct air pressure (Running about 50PSI)

5. Front end Alignment is good

6. Belt is in good shape

 

The only thing I can think of would be the fuel filter. I haven't replaced that yet, but would it cause such a loss of mileage? I have the filter, just haven't had time to do it. Is there anything else I may have missed. Also I tow a 23 foot trailer and when I tow, the mileage is around 10. This has always been the case and I consider that normal, which has me even more confused.

 

Bill

[Victory Red]

Change the filter. You've got nothing to lose, since you already have it. Besides, you're 20K overdue if you go by the manual. The General says to change the fuel filter at 30K.

[99silveradoz71]

Do it, you're due.

[kgornek]

I have to agree on the fuel filter. It couldn't hurt. Do that, and if it doesn't work, we can rule that out and move on.

 

Good 'ol troubleshooting at it's best.

[FlashJim]

How do you relieve the fuel pressure before removing the filter?

[RyanbabZ71]

i just took off the gas cap

[rado]

Yea, just replace the filter, it's inexpensive, and easy to replace.. No biggy

[Victory Red]

How do you relieve the fuel pressure before removing the filter?

Removing the gas cap will help. Also go under the hood and bleed off the pressure at the schrader valve. Wrap a rag around it when you do, in case it squirts out. Then, just to be safe, crack the lines loose on the filter slowly and be prepared with a rag in case it seeps out. Nothing worse than fuel in the old eyeballs.

 

Don't forget about the two o-rings either. One in each fitting. Too bad GM isn't smart enough to include two o-rings with the filter. You take the filter off and lose one or damage it, then you're screwed.

[Redapple]

I will replace it this week. Let yall know if it makes a difference.

 

Thanx for the input,

Bill