hey all, been trying to change the fuel filter on my moms 2000 Exped (4.6 4wd) for the past hour, to no avail. i got the little metal clips off pretty easily but trying to get the fuel lines off the filter was a total pain. I think i might have the wrong fuel filter removal tool. what do yours look like?

 

It's a pain even with the right tool.

 

granted, but that doesnt really tell me if it is the right tool...

 

Yes you have the right tool but it is better suited for AC connections. I have had much better success with these esp. in tight areas:

http://www.amazon.com/Lisle-37000-Co...9123831&sr=8-1

I have seen them at PepMart (Pep Boys) and also Checkers etc... Ther are around 10.00, you will have much better success. Also twist the lines or filter to free up the o-ring's which tend to dry and seize somewhat. Let us know what happens for feedback.

Dave

 

I'll second the suggestion on the tools. They work great for me.

 

now im just really confused. am i supposed to twist the tool in circles, or pull on it?

 

If you are using the ones I mentioned, get the right size one and shove it in there it will almost go flush and then pull and wiggle. Inside there is a spring that has to be expanded to be able to pass over a ridge on the inner line.

Dave

 

I have one like that on my 98 E350 van. Once you push the plastic tool into the connector of the fuel line connector, pull the connector back off the fuel line - don't try to use the tool to "push" the fuel line as you will be pushing against a ridge on the fuel filter inlet tube and go absolutely no where. You sort of "push" holding the tool against the inside ridge with one hand, and with the other, pull back on the fuel line. The tool holds open a bunch of little spring fingers that clamp over the ridge on the fuel filter inlet tube. Once held open, just pull the fuel line off. You may have to pull hard (it won't just fall off in your hand), but it will come off.

Just don't try to "push" it off with the tool - remember you'll be pushing against the ridge on the fuel fiter itself.

Be patient, it'll work.

 

Yours will work just fine so long as it's the right size (5/16), just be patient.

 

You could get this http://www.lislecorp.com/tool_detail.cfm?detail=1104

 

 

I use the metal type. Nevertheless, it is a PITA. I don't like getting fuel on my hands either.

 

Better fuel on the hands,than in the face,or running down your arms and dripping in your ears.

 

Yea been there done that.

 

Who says fuel hasn't gone to all those places?