Would like to know if anyone on here knew if the fuel hardline from the fuel filter going to the engine on 2001 thru 2003 Explorer Sport is the same as the fuel hardline on the Explorer Sport Trac 4.0 2001 through 2005? Not concerned about the fuel lines from the back of the filter to the tank, just the one going from filter to the engine. Thanks in advance.

 

Not knowing exactly, I can't imagine it would be any different. Ford would engineer something like that to be the same across as many vehicles sharing the same engine as possible, especially since they are both Explorers. I usually solve these kinds of issues by looking up the part at rockauto.com and then seeing what other vehicles it fits. Helps to find parts in the Junkyard faster and gives me more to look at than my specific vehicle.

 

This particular part of the fuel system isn't a routine replacement part and not available at part stores anywhere. Ford discontinued this part, too. During previous ownership the connector at the filter was crushed with pliers or a vise-grip. The filter will not release at all. I've fought with it, bombarded the connector with PB Blaster, and have broken 2 fuel line release tools.

 

Ah, then it's a matter of referencing it in a service manual and seeing if it's similar to another model. I would have to imagine they would have kept it very similar between the Rangers, Explorers and just about anything the same 4.0 was put in. I'd stick with full frame trucks though, it would be less likely to match something with a Unibody like a Mustang.