Before You Begin:
* Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves. Work in a well-ventilated area away from open flames or sparks. Have a fire extinguisher nearby.
* Vehicle Preparation: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine. Allow the engine to cool completely.
* Gather Supplies: You'll need a new fuel filter (make sure it's the correct one for your Skylark), wrenches (likely 1/2" and possibly a smaller size for the fuel lines), rags, a container to catch spilled fuel, and possibly fuel line disconnect tools (depending on the type of connectors).
Procedure:
1. Locate the Fuel Filter: The fuel filter's location varies slightly depending on the engine (likely a 2.4L or 3.1L V6). Consult your repair manual for the precise location. It's usually near the fuel tank, often underneath the vehicle. You might need to go underneath the car to access it.
2. Release Fuel Pressure: This is crucial to prevent fuel spraying. The method varies depending on your vehicle. Your repair manual will show you how to do this safely; it may involve disconnecting the battery's negative terminal and running the engine until it stalls. Do not skip this step.
3. Prepare for Fuel Spill: Place your fuel container beneath the filter to catch any spilled fuel.
4. Disconnect Fuel Lines: Carefully loosen the clamps or fittings on the fuel lines leading to and from the fuel filter. Use the appropriate wrench and take your time. Some fuel lines might have quick-disconnect fittings which require special tools. If they're not quick disconnects, you'll need to carefully loosen the lines from the filter. Have rags ready to soak up any leaking fuel.
5. Remove the Fuel Filter: Once the lines are disconnected, carefully remove the fuel filter. It might be held in place by clamps or a retaining strap.
6. Install the New Fuel Filter: Before installing the new fuel filter, compare it to the old one to ensure it's correctly oriented (some filters have arrows indicating fuel flow direction). Install the new filter, making sure all seals are properly seated.
7. Reconnect Fuel Lines: Carefully reconnect the fuel lines to the new fuel filter, ensuring a secure connection. Tighten clamps or fittings appropriately.
8. Check for Leaks: After reconnecting, carefully inspect all connections for leaks. If you see any leaks, immediately tighten the connections further.
9. Re-establish Fuel Pressure (if necessary): Some systems require you to crank the engine over (without starting) for a few seconds to re-establish fuel pressure. Refer to your repair manual for specifics.
10. Start the Engine: Start the engine and check for leaks. Let the engine run for a few minutes to ensure the new filter is working correctly.
11. Inspect for Leaks: After the engine has run for a few minutes, turn it off and inspect the fuel filter and lines again for any leaks.
Important Notes:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1997 Buick Skylark is highly recommended. It will provide detailed diagrams and instructions specific to your vehicle's model and engine.
* Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable working with fuel or aren't familiar with car repair, it's best to take your Skylark to a qualified mechanic. Improper fuel filter replacement can lead to engine damage.
This information is for general guidance only. Always prioritize safety and consult your vehicle's repair manual for the correct procedure.
