Fuel Filters

Does your fuel pressure drop under hard acceleration, or do your new injectors need protection from dirt from the tank? An inline fuel filter catches particles before they reach the pump, pressure regulator and injectors. Here you'll find filters with different filtration ratings and fittings for both stock cars and tuned projects.

What a fuel filter does

The filter sits in the fuel line and keeps rust, dirt and wear particles away from the injectors. With increased power, more fuel has to flow through. A filter that is too small or clogged can therefore cause a pressure drop, making the engine run lean under high load. Among our fuel filters you'll find both inline filters and kits for specific cars, e.g. from Aeromotive, Fuelab and Radium Engineering.

How to choose a fuel filter

• Filtration rating: A 10 micron element catches fine particles and is typically fitted after the pump. Coarser elements, e.g. 100 micron, are typically used before the pump to limit restriction on the suction side.
• Element type: Elements are available in microglass, fabric and stainless steel. Whether the element can be cleaned or must be replaced depends on the product.
• Fittings: The AN size, e.g. -6AN, -8AN, -10AN or -16AN, must match your lines and your flow requirements. Some filters have different sizes on the inlet and outlet.
• Fuel: Check that the filter and seals are designed for the fuel you run, e.g. ethanol blends.

Installation and maintenance

Install the filter with the arrow pointing in the direction of flow, and position it so it is easy to access. If the filter needs a separate housing, you'll find it under fuel filter housings. How often the element needs to be replaced or cleaned depends on the cleanliness of the fuel and the condition of the tank.

Frequently asked questions

Should the fuel filter be before or after the fuel pump?

It depends on the system. Many projects use a coarse filter before the pump to protect it and a finer filter after the pump to protect the injectors.

How do I know if the fuel filter is clogged?

Typical signs are falling fuel pressure under load, hesitation during acceleration or a lean mixture at high rpm. Measure the pressure before drawing any conclusions, as other faults can cause the same symptoms.

Can a filter element be cleaned instead of replaced?

Some stainless steel elements can be cleaned and reused, while microglass or fabric elements are typically replaced. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the specific part number.