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. Work on a 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 your 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 is quickly remove from engine surfaces.
Ensure that all fuel-soaked cloths or towels are deposited into a flame-proof
waste container with a lid.
- 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 light bulb, spark or open flame.
- Always use a second wrench when loosening or tightening
fuel line connection fittings. This will prevent unnecessary stress and
torsion to fuel piping. Always follow the proper torque specifications.
- Always replace worn fuel fitting O-rings with new
ones. Do not substitute fuel hose where rigid pipe is installed.
