I have a 1996 f-150, and was replacing my fuel filter as part of a larger issue of replacing a fuel pump and removing the rear tank. I wasn't able to get the fuel filter off on my first try and moved on to raising the bed and working on other things.

By the time I understood how to remove the filter and completed the replacement, I'd lost the retention clips that lock the braided fuel line to the filter neck. I never would have imagined replacing these clips could be so difficult.

My first question: what is this C style retention or safety clip called?


One parts house told me they had them in stock, and the Ford dealership tells me it's not an OEM part. I'm sure it is because I've found a lot of posts on how to change the filter, but so far never one that calls this part by name.

By now my concern is the part is rarely sold and either can't be found, or will cost a ridiculous price. So an alternative may be to cut the fuel lines as shown in this thread:

Ford F150 & F250 How to Replace Fuel Line - Ford-Trucks

I assume this will work, and I'm facing a similar question around removing the rear tank, so this may be a good work around. But my preference is definitely replacing the clips if I can.

 

I would think they are called fuel line safety retainer clips.

 

I don't know the official name but I'd just grab a few next time you're at the yard. Or take the other clip to your parts store and see if Dorman makes one.

 

Fuel Tube Retainer: F5TZ-9J278-A



Fordpartsdirect diagram Callout "9J278"

 

Thanks Randy. I couldn't find anyone who carries an after market part, so I stopped by a Ford dealership and the parts guy told me the clips in the braided fuel line will seal the connection to the filter. He said back in the day mechanics had dozens of them laying around.

There is only one retainer clip in my state, and the parts are $28 each! I may just go with safety wire until I can make it to a salvage yard ..... or just make them. It's a pain with them being so unique to Ford, but it does look very secure.

 

I have several of them laying around. Send me your mailing info in a PM or email.

 

OK, so the plot thickens. The clips I have on parts trucks varies. I'm thinking they all "could" be used but I find it interesting/frustrating at the differences.



The ones I took off of the actual fuel filter on the 95 do not match and the one with the "latch" is the same as what is on the connection for the dual tank split.

Correct me if I'm wrong but the larger (3/8") line is the supply line and the one the filter is inline on and the larger non-latching clips are what David needs.

 

Plenty running around without them . If the internal lock is good , don't worry too much about them missing .

 

Yeah that's true. They can be a PITA to remove and install!

 

I bet you're right Steve. The same retention clips used on the fuel pump probably work well on the filter. I've seen different style clips from searches, some look like they have prongs that slide down the filter neck.

But this drawing from another post on this site seems to look just like the fuel pump retention clips. This does seem like its making an easy task more complicated than it should be.



And JWC 3, one guy at the Ford dealership said it was designed for assembly and not needed once the vehicle left the plant. That could actually be true, but I'm convinced it's a good part to have installed long term.

 

I'll send you a pair, adjust as necessary.

 

The internal lock is stainless , the outer is a safeguard lock . I would like to have them , but not totally needed . If you feel better , just go to a pull a part and get a few while getting more needed parts . They will likely throw them in for free .

 

A big thanks to ncranchero aka Steve for sending me a set of retainer clips. This may be belt and suspenders, but it's a lot of pressure on the fuel lines so I'm a lot happier with them on. Thanks for the help Steve.

 

price of fuel nowadays you wanna retain ever line you can to prevent a leak.

 

No problem, glad to help