My 1985 Vanagon has the original fuel filter setup. Will this kit work for me and is it really an upgrade?

Absolutely! This kit is specifically designed for early Vanagons, including your 1985 model. It upgrades your original, easily clogged pre-filter setup to the more robust Bosch fuel filter system that VW switched to in 1986. This means better protection for your fuel pump from starvation and cavitation, ultimately helping it last longer. You're essentially getting the superior system that later models benefited from.

What exactly is included in the GoWesty Vanagon Fuel Filter Upgrade Kit?

The kit comes with everything you need to perform the upgrade. You'll get the larger, more effective Bosch fuel filter, all the necessary fittings and hoses, and detailed, step-by-step instructions to guide you through the installation process. Just remember, you'll need a pair of pincer pliers, which are sold separately, to complete the job.

Why move the fuel filter after the fuel pump? Isn't that how it was originally?

For earlier Vanagons (pre-1986), the original setup had a filter *before* the fuel pump, which was prone to clogging quickly. This kit moves the more efficient Bosch fuel filter to the position *after* the fuel pump. This placement protects the pump itself from debris and ensures a cleaner fuel supply to your engine, preventing issues like cavitation and extending the pump's lifespan. It's a significant improvement over the original design.

I'm not super mechanically inclined. How difficult is the installation for this fuel filter upgrade?

We've designed the installation to be as straightforward as possible. The kit includes comprehensive instructions with clear steps. While it does require a pair of pincer pliers (sold separately), most DIYers find the process manageable. If you're comfortable with basic maintenance, you should be able to handle this upgrade. Many customers appreciate the detailed guide that makes it less intimidating.

Gowesty vanagon fuel filter upgrade kit

Name: GoWesty Vanagon Fuel Filter Upgrade Kit
SKU: GVW-VANO-FF-UPGRADE
Price: 47.95 USD
Availability: InStock

GoWesty Vanagon Fuel Filter Upgrade Kit

Product:	GVW-VANO-FF-UPGRADE
Works With:	1980-1985
Manufacturer:	GoWesty
Availability:	Only 2 Left in Stock!
Wrench Rating:	Requires some hand & power tools and minimal mechanical knowledge.

$47.95

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If you've got an early model Vanagon, this kit is like striking the motherlode. The GoWesty kit allows you to replace the soon-to-be-obsolete pre-filter (you know, the one that clogs really easily and causes the fuel pump to starve and cavitate, thus shortening its life). Even better, it replaces that pre-filter with the late-model Vanagon real-deal Bosch fuel filter after the fuel pump. VW figured out that this was the best way to do things in 1986... and now your pre-86 Vanagon can be outfitted in the same way.

Kit includes all of the parts you need to upgrade your fuel filter system, including a larger and more effective post-fuel pump filter. Detailed instructions included.

Learn more by reading this article.

5 stars: 16 (89%)
4 stars: 2 (11%)
3 stars: 0 (0%)
2 stars: 0 (0%)
1 star: 0 (0%)

Everything you need!

This kit has everything you need to replace/upgrade your pump/filter for those with the 7mm outlet fuel tank. Also reduces multiple connections, eliminating the pre-filter or step-up connections to increase the line size to the pump.

Good quality and good fit!!

The upgrade is a great idea, but in my model, the 7mm to 12mm fuel hose(from tank to pump) didn’t fit well. I replaced it with a 12mm fuel hose on both sides. The 7mm side of the hose was too small for my fuel tank. Other than that, the system works great.

Great Kit. Installed easily in less than 20 minutes. Van is running great and no longer worried about the white pre filter clogging again.

Great piece

Modernizes the car without sacrificing reliability.

Filters the fuel

as it should! recommend

These work great!

These work great!

Fuel pump upgrade

Very easy to install and no leaks. I did have to buy a tool for the ear clamps but they work well. Van is running smoother than with old filter set up.

Looks to be good quality

I have not installed yet, but it appears to be great quality.

Fits great

5/5

nice lines and filter

the installation PDF was a little different than my van but i still made it work

Nice upgrade from the original

Easy install

GoWesty Vanagon Fuel Filter Upgrade Kit

easy to install

Great upgrade!

A must for any early van with a plastic filter

GoWesty Vanagon Fuel Filter Upgrade Kit

Everything you need in one package.

Fine product

Great improvement for my early vanagon

Easy Install

Quick and easy install, your van will thank you for the upgrade!

Everything you need

The fuel filter upgrade kit comes with everything you need and clear instructions on how to install.

GoWesty Vanagon Fuel Filter Upgrade Kit

GoWesty Vanagon Fuel Filter Upgrade Kit Wrench Rating

All Wrench Ratings

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GoWesty Vanagon Fuel Filter Upgrade Kit

GoWesty Vanagon Fuel Filter Upgrade Kit Wrench Rating

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