This small tutorial will show you how to replace a rusted-in fuel filter by cutting the fuel line. With other words: how do I cut the fuel line without setting my car and myself on fire.

Maybe your fuel filter looks like the one on the first picture. Even after one week of penetrating oil you have no chance to loose the fuel line from the filter. In that case, the best solution is to replace the whole fuel line and the filter. In my case, I don't wanted to replace the whole fuel line, neither I wanted to replace the original fuel filter with a universal filter. Here is my solution to get rid of the rusty filter and install a new original GM filter:

You need a steel-flex fuel line (or in my case a rubber line and a steel cover), four hose clamps, an old fuel line with a thread that fits your fuel filter, a tiny pipe cutter, maybe new o-rings for your fuel line fittings and a new fuel filter.

Take a look at your filter under the car an decide where you cut the line (depending on how your fuel line looks). The red marks on the next picture show where I've cut my fuel line.

Before you begin to cut your fuel line, keep in mind that there is pessure on the line and it contains gas/fuel. DO NOT CUT THE LINE WITH ANY TOOL THAT WILL CAUSE SPARKS OR HEAT UP THE LINE! The most safe way to cut it is to use a tiny pipe cutter. Before you start you should drain the line as far as possible by loosing the line at engine side. Fuel will slowly run back to the tank. For less pressure open your gas cap. If possible drain your tank (or do the work when the tank is nearly empty).

Cut the ends of your additional fuel line (see list above) and use the ends as adapter for your new fuel filter. Put some copper paste on the threat to prevent the filter from rusting-in again. Keep fuel line o-ring free from copper paste.

If you're done, it should look like this:

Now cut the rubber lines as short as necessary, place the new filter with the rubber lines over your old fuel line and tighten the hose clamps.