Filter position

[nutz4spd]

I want to add a fuel filter that has a return line and I’m questioning myself as to where to put it. Since it has a return port, should it go before or after the pressure regulator? My current setup is pictured below.

 

[Doorkicker]

If using a stock mechanical pump, I typically will put a filter directly after it to protect systems down flow... like a regulator and carb. If electric pump, pre and post pump, with tighter filter (lower micron) on the post side, which is before the carb/regulator.

 

[nutz4spd]

If using a stock mechanical pump, I typically will put a filter directly after it to protect systems down flow... like a regulator and carb. If electric pump, pre and post pump, with tighter filter (lower micron) on the post side, which is before the carb/regulator.

That’s what I have now. The clear one in the picture. I wasn’t sure if a filter with a return line should be before or after the regulator. I’m trying to cut down on a heat soak problem.

 

[matthon]

Do you have a sending unit at the tank with a return?

Reason I ask is I ordered the below filter but I have a stock sending unit.

Wix Filters 495-33054 WIX Filters Fuel Filters | Summit Racing

 

[nutz4spd]

Do you have a sending unit at the tank with a return?

Reason I ask is I ordered the below filter but I have a stock sending unit.

Wix Filters 495-33054 WIX Filters Fuel Filters | Summit Racing

No. The sending unit only has an outlet. The previous owner put a provision in the filler neck for a return port. I just picked up a 33040 from O’Reilly’s. Similar to yours only the return port is parallel to the out put line.

 

[nutz4spd]

I installed a filter with a return line after the pressure regulator, ran the return line back to the tank. I left the clear filter that’s before the regulator for visual purposes and extra filtering.

I started the car and the fuel pressure gauge was all over the place. I’m assuming that the return line is causing it to not hold pressure anymore. If I eliminated the pressure regulator would it still run fine you think? The car didn’t seem to have the giddy up it did and I can only assume it’s due to the wonky fuel pressure now.

 

[matthon]

I left the clear filter that’s before the regulator for visual purposes and extra filtering.

That clear filter is garbage, they easily fail and leak fuel all over, ask me how I know.

I’m assuming that the return line is causing it to not hold pressure anymore.

Not sure if you have a carb or efi.
I have efi, the filter below is both a filter and a regulator that maintains 58psi and it is mounted very close to my gas tank.

In essence, my return line is after the regulator/filter, and the main line runs all the way up to dual throttle bodies without any loss in psi.

Based on that, I don't understand why your return line after the regulator would cause a loss in pressure.

Summit Racing SUM-230150 Summit Racing™ Universal LS Fuel Filter Regulators | Summit Racing

 

[nutz4spd]

Matthon, you’re the second or third person to tell me that about the clear filter. What fails on them?

I’m running a simple Holly 600. I just find it strange that the gauge started jumping after installing the filter. I think I’m going to bypass the regulator and put a gauge just before the carb to see what that does.

 

[matthon]

What fails on them?

The glass, the seals, the filter, the screw deal that holds it together.
The concept is great, a visible replaceable filter, but that particular filter can and will fail anywhere.

The only good filter, imo, are the stock metal sealed filters.
If you're worried about not being able to see when it's clogged there are other issues.

 

[Black_Sheep]

The glass, the seals, the filter, the screw deal that holds it together.
The concept is great, a visible replaceable filter, but that particular filter can and will fail anywhere.

The only good filter, imo, are the stock metal sealed filters.
If you're worried about not being able to see when it's clogged there are other issues.

A lot of engine fires are attributed to those glass filters, I prefer filters with one piece metal housings for that reason.

 

[nutz4spd]

The glass, the seals, the filter, the screw deal that holds it together.
The concept is great, a visible replaceable filter, but that particular filter can and will fail anywhere.

The only good filter, imo, are the stock metal sealed filters.
If you're worried about not being able to see when it's clogged there are other issues.

Gotcha. I just like the fact I can see the fuel flow. It helps in diagnosing fuel delivery problems should they arise. I'll swap it out though, just to be on the safe side. Thank you for the heads up.