How to Change a 2007 Chevy Silverado Fuel Filter

The fuel filter in a 2007 Chevy Silverado is part of the fuel pump module mounted inside the fuel tank. The filter cannot be changed individually, and Chevy actually states that the filter should last indefinitely. If there is ever a problem with the fuel filter, you will have to change the fuel pump along with it. This will require you to remove the fuel tank from the truck in order to access the pump module.

Things You'll Need

• Wrench
• Siphon kit
• Shop rags
• Screwdriver
• Floor jack
• Jack stands
• Water pump pliers
• Marker

Instructions

Removing the Fuel Tank

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

2. Unscrew and open the filler cap on the side of the truck, and then unscrew the cap on the fuel pressure test port, which is located on the fuel rail. Wrap shop rags around the port and depress the valve in the port with a screwdriver to relieve the fuel pressure.

3. Raise the truck's rear end and support it on jack stands. Unbolt the fuel tank's rock guard (if equipped) with a wrench, let it swing down and disengage the slots on the inner edge.

4. Loosen the hose clamps for the fuel filler neck hose and vent hose, using a screwdriver, and disconnect the filler hose from the tank. Disconnect the EVAP and fuel lines from the tank at their quick-connect fittings.

5. Detach the clips that connect the pump module to the frame rail (if it is clipped to the rail).

6. Unbolt the tank straps with a wrench while an assistant supports it. Lower the tank slowly, until you can disconnect the electrical connectors for the fuel pump module and EVAP pressure sensor; lower the tank the rest of the way after disconnecting the connectors.

Removing the Pump/Filter

1. Disconnect the EVAP line, the vent line and the fuel supply line from the fuel pump's mounting flange, using their quick-connect fittings.

2. Unscrew the fuel pump module's lock ring with large water pump pliers; turn the ring counter-clockwise and tap it with a brass punch and hammer if the ring refuses to budge.

3. Mark the fuel pump flange's orientation relative to the fuel tank, using a marker.

4. Pull the fuel pump module out of the tank until you can access the quick-connect fitting for the ventilation harness. Disconnect the fitting and remove the pump module from the tank.

5. Disconnect the fuel-sending unit's electrical connector from the pump-mounting flange; disconnect the level-sensor wiring harness from the harness guide, then press the two levers on the sending unit's locking lugs and remove the unit from the pump.

Installing the Pump/Filter

1. Slide the fuel-sending unit onto the replacement fuel pump module (which includes the new fuel filter) until it clicks into place, then pull on the unit to assure it is locked. Connect the electrical connectors.

2. Insert the fuel pump module into the tank, using the marks on the old module flange and the tank as a guide to line up the module on the tank. Avoid damaging the float arm during installation.

3. Screw the locking ring onto the pump module and tank with the water pump pliers.

4. Connect the fuel and EVAP lines to the fuel pump module, using the quick-connect fittings.

5. Raise the fuel tank into position on the truck, connect the electrical connectors to the fuel pump and pressure sensor and bolt the straps into place.

6. Reconnect the filler hose to the tank with its clamps and connect the pump module clips to the frame rail, if equipped. Connect the slots for the rock guard, swing it into place and apply its bolts.

7. Lower the truck off the jack stands and reconnect the battery cable.

Tips & Warnings

• If the tank is not empty, siphon out the fuel with a vacuum pump or similar siphon tool and deposit the removed fuel in a gas can.

• Instead of using an assistant, you can raise a transmission jack to support the fuel tank while you unstrap it. Place a wood block on the jack to keep it from damaging the tank.

References

• "Chilton General Motors Full Size Trucks Repair Manual"; Mike Stubblefield; Haynes North America; 2009