Inline Filter In Fuel Pump Assembly Correct or Not?

[Turboguy]

All,

So I bought the replacement Walbro and started installing it in the 2000 LS today. After fighting the red fuel line retaining rings for a bit got the top off.

Found what appears to be an in-line fuel filter attached to my fuel bucket assembly. Is this factory-correct? I wasn't expecting this but is it supposed to be there? God only knows what the previous owners did with this thing so I'm a bit curious and want to get it right before reassembly.

If so, is there a replacement part number for this filter?

If not, do I just bypass it and reconnect the lines?

Not sure but that looks like the fuel float electrical wire wedged into this filter's bracket..uh...what?

Anybody ever seen this setup before?

 

[joegr]

That's a ground wire.
It certainly doesn't look factory.

 

[Turboguy]

My thoughts too joe. The black hose connects to the black nipple on the cover, seen in the upper left of the first photo, for one of the fuel lines.

Think I can just bypass that filter? I mean, why double filter something when I have the fenderwell fuel filter too?

 

[joegr]

...
Think I can just bypass that filter? I mean, why double filter something when I have the fenderwell fuel filter too?

I would. I don't see the point in adding a hard to get to to change filter.

 

[Hawk03]

There seems to be a few different versions of the pump:

Install guide to '03 no in line filter
http://www.lincolnvscadillac.com/showthread.php?t=62671

A couple pics with different pumps from gen 1s
http://www.lincolnvscadillac.com/showthread.php?t=61361

My '00 didn't have an inline filter attached to it so I don't think its necessary to install one with a filter. Maybe it depended on the manufacture date of the car on which pump, filter vs no filter was installed?

 

[Turboguy]

Well I'll be damned, thanks Hawk. That's exactly what mine looked like.

Just bypassed the filter and ran black hose up to top, running well.

Appreciate the responses gentlemen.

Turboguy