Underbonnet fuel filter on Mark 4 GTI T

[Gti5382]

I want to change the underbonnet fuel filter (the one by the coolant header tank). I see lots of filters advertised that are located down near the tank. Checking GSF & Euro carparts they dont list the one I need. Any ideas?
Also there is a black plastic unit on the other side of the coolant tank that feeds pipes into the filter: what does that do and is a service part? (Whats it called?!)
Thanks.

[WadGTI]

Think this is the charcoal filter you are talking about?. Not aware of any under bonnet fuel filter.

Deff one after the tank underneath the car which is pants to change.

[Prawny]

there is no under bonnet fuel filter on a mk4 gti mate. Just the bean tin sized one that sits under the drivers side sill in front of the tank.

[Gti5382]

Doh! OK I bow to your superior knowledge. So what is that black plastic fitting that it seems the fuel lines run into & out of in front of the coolant header tank?
 
I'll do the inline filter by the tank as the car has 205k on it.

The issue is that car runs good but at idle I get a distinct whiff of fuel from the engine bay through the heater with fan on 1.  Checked most all fittings/joints under the bonnet but cannot see a leak so thought it might be (non existent fuel filter blocked!). Any ideas?

Lastly why is that tiny fuel pressure regulator a whopping £62 eiven at ECP?!

Thanks,

Steve.

[WadGTI]

Yeah, thats the charcoal filter. I think its do with releasing the fuel vapors and to stop pressure building in the tank. If its ticking once warmed up and idleing then its normal and working.

I would maybe check for split/cracked pcv hoses near the firewall. I would deff change the filter if it hasnt been done before. Very simple to do. You may have to secure it with a cable tie as the bracket on mines was shot.

I would check to make sure the vac system is airtight before changing expensive parts. Use a bottle of soapy water spray and spray the hoses whilst the car is running.

[Gti5382]

Thanks very much for that advice. The charcoal filter ticks with the motor idling so ought to be OK but with 205k on the clock wont it be past its best by? If so what will VW charge for it (no listing at ECP) & is it an easy swop?

[WadGTI]

Not too sure mate. Certainlly, if it looks in good nick and the hoses are all good, I would just leave it alone! lol.