Longevity of fuel filter

[fox889]

Being a bit of a ‘filter nerd’ & always wanting to change various filters at the earliest opportunity, I thought I’d change the fuel filter in my 2002 GS1150 44k miles from new. Pretty comprehensive service history but no mention of the fuel filter. So, out it comes!
The BMW filter is stamped 27-02-2002 so the original filter has been in there since new, nearly 20 years. Everything is pristine, submersible hoses as new, U bend hose perfect, all fittings as new, tank skin perfect, no flaking, shaking the fuel out of the filter & it was as clear as it went in. Pump looks original as all the hose clamps match perfectly.

So, did I waste my time, energy & money? I don’t think I did, as it’s another filter ticked off the ‘preventive maintenance’ sheet. But, is changing the fuel filter part of any service schedule with BMW or is it one of these ‘sealed for life’ jobbies?
Be interested to hear your views. Thanks.

 

[Colin]

fuel filter

I think some of the guys on here have moved the filter to the outside so it is easier to replace. somebody might be along soon to tell you how to do it.

 

[Ian J Hartley]

But, is changing the fuel filter part of any service schedule with BMW or is it one of these ‘sealed for life’ jobbies?
Be interested to hear your views. Thanks.

The book says about 24k miles or 12k if fuel quality is poor. I doubt many bother until they get fuelling problems.

You’ve done no harm and gained some useful knowledge about the internals of the fuel tank.

 

[theoneandonly]

ummmm i've never changed mine . i know i should , but i haven't . it has 125k miles on it now.

 

[knucklemoto]

I changed mine at about 120K, obviously I'm far more risk adverse than theoneandonly. BTW the bike ran fine, but as I had the bike apart for other bits I changed it and the fuel lines too.

And yes the filter can and has been run externally on GS's.

 

[Mzokk]

I changed mine at 24k 48k and it’s now got 73k on it and I’ll change the filter over the winter…….it’s cheap and easy to do so why not??

 

[fox889]

I wasn’t especially worried about the mileage-v-filter, more concerned about being 20 years old. Needn’t of worried, all looks pristine. Bike ran without a problem, just me being me I suppose.
New filter, O ring, outside hoses & Camshaft tensioner upgrade coming from Motorworks.��

Thanks f9r all your input, much appreciated.