So I went to change the fuel filter today, and after 3 hours of trying to get those stupid hose clips off, I gave up. It was a challenge in itself just to get to the clips. My hands aren't the smallest, and I could barely reach the filter. Any tips or tricks before I go to the dealer Tues?

 

I had mine replaced when the boday was off the truck for the new engine, even then it wasn't easy. I know, if you don't have something good to say, don't say it.

 

Ford uses a special tool for clip removal. I think a similar tool is available in the aftermarket.

 

You can buy the tool from Advance auto parts for about $6 or so. It's not possible to remove the hoses without this tool.

Once you have the tool, it's a matter of pushing it into the filter really hard, and the hoses disconnect like magic.

XXL

 

I have the tool. Is the tool used to remove the clips, or the hose from the filter? I thought it was the hose, which I can't get to because of the clips.

 

The tool separates the hose (with clip) from the filter. The clips remain attached to the hose. I did mine and it took about 30 seconds to unattach both sides of the filter.

 

AHHHHHHH.....That explains it. I'll try that then.

 

What you do is close the tool around the hose (the tool is like pliers, but the ends close to make a ring around the hose.) With the pliers closed around the fuel line, push them back into the filter- the ring will slide in between the line and the lip on the opening of the filter. You push that in, and it disconnects the internal clips - now you just pull the hose out. It should pretty much fall out - if you're really fighting it, then the clips weren't disconnected (the tool is made out of tin or something; very cheap. You can bend it with your bare hands).

A little bit of fussing and you'll be done in no time.

XXL

 

I bought a little plastic tool at Pep Boys that works great for around 3-4 bucks. It's about the size of a quarter in diameter, looks like a straw hat with the center punched out, and it's split down the middle. Wrap it around the filter stem with the "punched out" side away from the filter, take your index and middle finger and push it into the gasline connection. That should free it up. Then do the other side. This should take 15-20 min.

 

Ok, I didn't buy the special tool but I did convince those internal clips to come off of my 96 expl. I'm just wondering if I'm looking for trouble by not using the said tool? I replaced my filter & nothing is leaking as of yet & the lines seemed to clip back on properely. Anyone else have experience with not using the tool?

 

I honestly haven't heard of anyone being able to remove the clips without the tool !

I guess if it's not leaking then there's no harm. I just opted to buy the $3 tool and do it right.

XXL

 

Figured out I needed a tool afterwards . No leaky yet. Though I should have realized I needed the tool bc I needed one for my Mustang...

 

OK boys, I think I know what the "clip" confusion is about. I changed the fuel filter on my 2002 F-250 as well as my sister's 2002 Focus. I need to go under dad's 2003 Expedition EB tomorrow for the same treatment, (can you tell this is a Ford family).

Under my F-250, I found an external clip in addition to the ones you need the tool for. These are small plastic (white/clear in color) that sact as an additional retention device on the line. I tried in frustration to pry these external clips off with a needlenose plier, and after a few curses, I just sheared it off. I then used the "tool" everyone here mentioned to detach the filter from the line. The new clips that came with the filter were perfect for the task. From then on, I just break off the external plastic clips & replace with new when I replace fuel filters of a similar configuration. Figure since it's plastic, you're better off replacing them with every filter change anyway.

Just one word of caution for anyone who changes their own fuel filter. THE FUEL LINE IS CONSTANTLY UNDER PRESSURE!!! You will have fuel spraying out when you relieve the pressure by removing the filter. The easiest, cleanest (least fuel spray), and most efficient method I have found for this task is to pull the fuse for the fuel pump while the truck is running (check your manual for the fuse #), and let it starve until the engine turns off (a few seconds). Acts like a fuel line shut-off, and releases pressure from the otherwise "charged" system. You'll have a lot less fuel discharging from the line when you change the filter, now. Also, use safety glasses! (now if only I can follow my own advice)

 

Starving it for fuel is, no doubt, the cleanest way. To elimate the spray, get wet hands, but save searching for the fuse, my fullsize Mercs and Mountaineer (haven't done the Expy yet) have a valve on the injector manifold someplace (for pressure testing I assume). It is just like an air valve, remove the cap, place a rag around it, and push in the internal pin. One quick puff and the pressure is releaved. None of the Fords I've had will run the fuel pump with the key off. My hands are always dirty so a little gas on them washes them. I try not to smoke while doing this!!!

 

Actually there is a fuel shutoff switch somewhere on the vehicle. Check the owners manual for location. Just follow the instructions above except trip the shutoff switch instead of pulling the fuse. My shutoff switch is behind the passenger side kick panel (I think). Hmmm, might be easier to pull the fuse.

PbFoot