Safety is the most important factor when performing not only fuel system
maintenance but any type of maintenance. Failure to conduct maintenance
and repairs in a safe manner may result in serious personal injury or
death. Maintenance and testing of the vehicle's fuel system components
can be accomplished safely and effectively by adhering to the following
rules and guidelines.
- To avoid the possibility of fire and personal injury,
always disconnect the negative battery cable unless the repair or test
procedure requires that battery voltage be applied.
- Always relieve the fuel system pressure prior to
disconnecting any fuel system component (injector, fuel rail, pressure
regulator, etc.), fitting or fuel line connection. Exercise extreme caution
whenever relieving fuel system pressure, to avoid exposing skin, face
and eyes to fuel spray. Please be advised that fuel under pressure may
penetrate the skin or any part of the body that it contacts.
- Always place a shop towel or cloth around the fitting
or connection prior to loosening to absorb any excess fuel due to spillage.
Ensure that all fuel spillage (should it occur) is quickly removed from
engine surfaces. Ensure that all fuel soaked cloths or towels are deposited
into a suitable waste container.
- Always keep a dry chemical (Class B) fire extinguisher
near the work area.
- Do not allow fuel spray or fuel vapors to come into
contact with a spark or open flame.
- Always use a back-up wrench when loosening and tightening
fuel line connection fittings. This will prevent unnecessary stress and
torsion to fuel line piping. Always follow the proper tighten specifications.
- Always replace worn fuel fitting O-rings with new.
Do not substitute fuel hose or equivalent, where fuel pipe is installed.
