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 by 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 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 spark
or open flame.
- Always use a second wrench when loosening or tightening fuel line connections
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.
