Fuel filter location on the 1997 Rexhall Aerbus

The fuel filter on a 1997 Rexhall Aerbus is mounted underneath the coach, along the driver's side frame rail between the fuel tank and the engine. You'll find it roughly midway along the length of the RV, secured to the frame with a bracket. The filter is a cylindrical metal canister about 4 to 5 inches long, and accessing it requires getting under the vehicle safely with proper support.

Because the Aerbus uses a gravity-fed fuel system (fuel flows from the tank to the engine without an electric pump), the filter sits lower than it would on a motorhome with a fuel pump. This placement means you'll need a jack, jack stands, and a creeper or crawler to reach it comfortably. Never work under an RV supported only by a hydraulic jack.

The filter connects to fuel lines on both ends using either hose clamps or threaded fittings, depending on the year and any previous repairs. Before you start, locate the shutoff valve on the fuel tank itself — you'll want to close it to reduce fuel spillage when you disconnect the lines.

Key Takeaways

  • The fuel filter sits under the driver's side frame rail, roughly midway along the RV's length, and requires safe jacking and support to access.
  • Closing the fuel tank shutoff valve before disconnecting lines will reduce the amount of fuel that spills during removal.
  • The filter connects with either hose clamps or threaded fittings, and you should have a drain pan ready to catch residual fuel.
  • Replacement filters for the 1997 Aerbus are available through RV parts suppliers and some general automotive stores, though you may need to verify the exact model number from your coach documentation.

Tools and materials you'll need

Gather a floor jack, jack stands rated for your RV's weight, a creeper or crawler, and a drain pan before you start. You'll also need an adjustable wrench or the correct socket size for the fittings on your filter (typically 5/8 inch or 3/4 inch), hose clamp pliers if your connections use clamps, and rags or shop towels to catch drips.

Have the replacement filter on hand before you remove the old one. Rexhall used different filter models across production years, so confirm the part number from your owner's manual or by calling an RV parts supplier with your coach's VIN. Common replacements include Fram or Napa filters designed for RV fuel systems, but the exact model matters — an incorrect filter can restrict fuel flow or fail to seal properly.

Steps to remove the old filter

Position your RV on level ground and engage the parking brake. Locate the fuel tank shutoff valve (usually a ball valve on the tank's outlet line) and turn it to the off position. This stops fuel from flowing out when you disconnect the lines, though some fuel will still remain in the filter itself.

Safely raise the driver's side of the RV with a floor jack, then place jack stands under the frame rails. Lower the RV onto the stands and remove the jack. Slide under with your creeper and locate the filter on the frame rail. Place your drain pan underneath it to catch any fuel that spills.

If your filter uses hose clamps, loosen them with pliers and slide the hoses off the inlet and outlet ports. If it uses threaded fittings, use your wrench to turn the fittings counterclockwise and disconnect them — have rags ready, as fuel will drip. Once both lines are free, unbolt the bracket holding the filter to the frame and remove the old filter.

Installing the new filter

Before you install the new filter, check that it comes with new seals or O-rings on the threaded ports (if your system uses fittings). If not, you may need to reuse the old seals, though replacing them is safer. Slide the new filter into the bracket and bolt it back to the frame.

Reconnect the inlet line (the one coming from the tank) to the bottom port of the new filter and the outlet line (going to the engine) to the top port. If you're using hose clamps, tighten them firmly but not so hard that you crush the hose. If you're using threaded fittings, hand-tighten them first, then use your wrench to snug them an additional quarter turn — over-tightening can crack the filter body.

Once both lines are connected, turn the fuel tank shutoff valve back to the on position. Check both connections for leaks by looking and feeling for wet spots. Start the engine and let it run for a minute, then check again. If you see fuel dripping, turn off the engine, close the shutoff valve, and tighten the connection further.

When to replace your fuel filter

The 1997 Aerbus fuel filter should be replaced every 10,000 to 15,000 miles of driving, or annually if you use the RV less frequently. Signs that your filter needs replacement include a noticeable drop in engine power during acceleration, difficulty starting the engine, or a fuel smell near the undercarriage. A clogged filter starves the engine of fuel and can damage the carburetor or fuel injectors over time.

If your RV has been sitting unused for several years, replace the filter before you take it out on the road. Old fuel breaks down and leaves varnish deposits that clog filters quickly. Replacing it as part of your pre-season maintenance is cheaper than dealing with a stalled engine miles from home.

Fuel system safety while working

Gasoline vapors are flammable and can ignite from a spark or open flame. Work in a well-ventilated area, away from any ignition sources, and never smoke or use power tools near the fuel system. Wear nitrile gloves to keep fuel off your skin, and wash your hands thoroughly after you finish.

If you spill fuel on the ground, let it evaporate in the open air rather than trying to clean it up when ready. Do not pour spilled fuel down a drain or into the trash. If you're uncomfortable working under your RV or dealing with fuel lines, a mobile RV technician or a shop that services motorhomes can do this job for you — it typically takes 30 to 45 minutes and costs between $75 and $150 in labor, plus the price of the filter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace the fuel filter without jacking up the RV?

No — the filter sits too low to reach safely from ground level. You must use a floor jack and jack stands to lift the RV and support it securely. Never work under an RV supported only by a jack, as a hydraulic failure can cause serious injury.

What if I can't find the shutoff valve on my fuel tank?

Not all 1997 Aerbus models have an external shutoff valve. If you can't locate one, you'll have to accept that fuel will drain from the filter when you disconnect the lines. Have your drain pan ready and work quickly. Some owners install an aftermarket shutoff valve for easier future maintenance.

How do I know which replacement filter to order?

Check your RV's owner's manual for the original part number, or contact an RV parts supplier with your coach's VIN and model year. You can also remove the old filter and look for a part number stamped or printed on the canister itself. Bring that number to a parts store to confirm the replacement.

Is it normal for fuel to drip after I reconnect the lines?

A few drops are normal as the system repressurizes, but steady dripping means your connection is not tight enough. Turn off the engine, close the shutoff valve, and tighten the connection further. If it still leaks, you may need to replace the seals or O-rings on the fitting.

What should I do if the engine won't start after I replace the filter?

Air may be trapped in the fuel line. Turn the ignition key to the on position (without starting the engine) for 10 to 15 seconds to let the fuel pump prime the system, then try starting. If the engine still won't turn over, check that both fuel lines are connected securely and that the shutoff valve is fully open.