2TR-FE fuel filter mod. WITH PICS!!

So as we all know the 2nd gen trucks do not have a serviceable fuel filter. Instead Toyota has relied on the fuel station to provide clean fuel, which we all know isn't always easy to find. So I have been making a few calls and spoke to a few reps at fuel injection shops and I have actually found a way to install a replaceable filter under the hood. This is currently in beta mode per say but it has been working flawlessly.
So before I get into the parts needed here are some things I found out.
The in tank sock is actually around the ballpark of 70-100 micron. This is not sufficient to fully filter the fuel for fuel injection. 30 micron or less is highly recommended by many injection shops.
After doing some digging I have found a filter suitable. It is a

$18 WIX 33538 Fuel (Complete In-Line) Filter, Pack of 1

WIX 33538 fuel filter. The filters capability is 20 micron nominal. With this being said it's around 35 micron absolute. You will need a bracket to mount the fuel filter and a short bolt. I have found this bracket and it unfortunately comes with another filter but it fits the filter body like a glove.

In a few min I will post a few photos of the install I have done as well as a few fittings you may need to do the install.

Filter with bracket part #: WIX 533886
Fuel filter to use: WIX 33538

 

Here is an over all view of what it looks like installed. Like I said beta mode lol.

 

Remove the factory QD fitting from here.

Wait.... You need to drain the fuel pressure lol.

To do this remove relay C-OPEN. Then start the truck and let it for. Try to restart to ensure all fuel pressure has been drained.

 

Attach the filter and mount to this location. There is a welded nut on the fender open here. Use a 10mm short bolt about 12mm long or 1/2 an inch.

10mm head size the threads are smaller. The bolt that I used was from the Fuel pressure regulator. Just the right thread pitch and length. I have the URD fuel block to give me a fuel pressure port.

 

Install the factory QD fitting to this port on the filter. It is the outlet side.

 

The opposite side of the same factory line you hooked up to the outlet side of the filter goes here.

 

Using a piece of hose as a jumper from the factory fuel line here (discharged side/push side of the pump) attach it via EFI clamp or proper QD fitting.

For some reason my Earls QD fitting will not go over the factory fuel line. I believe this is due to it being a non-standard size or maybe I've just lost my mind lol.

 

On the opposite side of the same hose you attached to the factory push side line, hook up your choice of QD fitting. I used an Earls 5/16 QD fitting.

 

As you can see it's the fuel inlet labeled "IN".

 

Your now done.

JK, your not. You need to reinstall the C-OPEN relay and attempt to start the truck. It may take a little longer than normal but do not worry it will start.

Once it starts check for system leaks and if no leaks are present you are good to go.

Enjoy your filtered fuel.

 

Thanks for figuring this out.

 

Any time. I will find the filter with the bracket you need to do the install. Unfortunately I can not source the bracket less the filter.

 

Did not know we didn't have a fuel filter...another mod to the list. Thanks for the research and being the guinea pig.

 

I've been a guinea pig for a bit lol. Its been a simple mod and after having 4 failed injectors due to contamination I'm not taking chances.

 

Filter with needed bracket part number on Post #1. Just added it.

 

I do plan on trying a -6 AN u-turn fitting and see if that works if not going to make a rigid pipe 180 with a flare in the end to keep the hose from slipping. I also plan to find a QD fitting that will go over the factory Toyota hard line. I'll keep you fine people updated.

 

Great DIY yourself pictures toy really did a nice job explaining everything that needs to be done.

 

The fuel filter is located within the fuel pump assembly and is a lifetime filter. It consists of more than the sock an is located within the assembly ('95 and up). I have no idea on the micron rating but I'm confident it's adequate. Its very rare to have to change the filter or pump assembly. Also injector replacement is also a very rare thing to change.

 

Fuel filter is in the gas tank along with the pump. You now have two fuel filters, which may affect the flow of gasoline to the engine, making it run lean, the pump will also have to work harder now.

If you want to do this the proper way, URD sells a kit that modifies the stock filter location so it's outside the tank and easy to replace.

 

You also risk introducing debris installing or replacing filter.