Replacing Fuel filter
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Junior User
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 78
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From: Houston
Replacing Fuel filter
HELP! I have tried all the tricks mentioned here to get the fuel filter off of my 2000exp. Metal tool, WD40, press, twist and turn and NO JOY! Two hours and only one side is off. What can I do to element this problem in the future? Would like to cut the ends off and use clamps, something that I can get at.
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 330
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I've never had it come out without a fight on my 97. Keep cool, keep at it. I have better luck when I push in the tool then push the line towards the filter, then push the tool in further. A third hand would help but......
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Junior User
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 78
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From: Houston
ditto's on the third hand. Finally after four hours of pushing, twisting and pulling it pops off. Four any others attempting this. here is a list of mostly what is posted on the forum:
The line has a coupling with spring clips inside of it that you need to compress with a tool while pulling it off. Here's what I found. After 40k miles filter was dirty.
Buy the expensive fuel line coupling metal tool my is a 5/16 Don't buy plastic tool. I bought the cheap metal one and had to file on it to true it up.
You will get about a cup of fuel out of lines wear goggles.
Disconnect battery to make sure fuel pump doesn't come on.
Line retainers slide up inside of coupling. Must slide these back first before trying to pop them off. Hard to see when under neath
Wash grit out of inside coupling first with WD40 good.
work lines back and forth, twisting them to free them up
push line in toward coupling insert tool. you will feel it when it compresses the springs then pull line off of filter. This can be a real *******.
I also, found that lightly clamping a small vise grip on the fuel line gave me a little more twist,pushing,pulling power but need to be careful that it doesn't crush the line.
The line has a coupling with spring clips inside of it that you need to compress with a tool while pulling it off. Here's what I found. After 40k miles filter was dirty.
Buy the expensive fuel line coupling metal tool my is a 5/16 Don't buy plastic tool. I bought the cheap metal one and had to file on it to true it up.
You will get about a cup of fuel out of lines wear goggles.
Disconnect battery to make sure fuel pump doesn't come on.
Line retainers slide up inside of coupling. Must slide these back first before trying to pop them off. Hard to see when under neath
Wash grit out of inside coupling first with WD40 good.
work lines back and forth, twisting them to free them up
push line in toward coupling insert tool. you will feel it when it compresses the springs then pull line off of filter. This can be a real *******.
I also, found that lightly clamping a small vise grip on the fuel line gave me a little more twist,pushing,pulling power but need to be careful that it doesn't crush the line.
New User
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
From: Georgia
just a stab since I dont have my manual in yet but...
I've worked on my Chevy (NOW A FORD OWNER) 
and when replacing the fuel filter I would have to disconnect the sensors from the fuel line (located in the rear) and the start the vehicle. The vehicle would sputter out in a few seconds since the sensor was deactivated from the line. Thus releasing a good deal of the vacuum (negative pressure) in the fuel line. Then I would clamp the line (to prevent fuel spillage) and release the filter. Still had to apply a few grunts but a lot easier. Hope this helps in this application in releasing the vacuum from the line holding the filter.
and when replacing the fuel filter I would have to disconnect the sensors from the fuel line (located in the rear) and the start the vehicle. The vehicle would sputter out in a few seconds since the sensor was deactivated from the line. Thus releasing a good deal of the vacuum (negative pressure) in the fuel line. Then I would clamp the line (to prevent fuel spillage) and release the filter. Still had to apply a few grunts but a lot easier. Hope this helps in this application in releasing the vacuum from the line holding the filter.
New User
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
From: Georgia
I have manual now and am going to get a fuel pressure gauge w/ a bleed valve ($40.00). Already have the fuel filter. will also test pressure.. i will repost my results for further analysis if needed.
Can anyone recommend a Brand for the Fuel Pressure Gauge?
Can anyone recommend a Brand for the Fuel Pressure Gauge?
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Elder User
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 759
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From: Omaha
I had to work mine out with the disconnect tool for a good half hour. Im about due for a new one so im looking forward to another fun filled day.
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Senior User
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 216
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From: Near Hemet, CA
Is it not necessary to relieve the fuel pressure first on the 2000? On my '91, '92, and '97 I did so by unscrewing the inertia fuel shut-off switch and thwacking it (gently) so it pops up. Then I crank the engine for about 10-15 seconds. I've used the plastic tool a few times and although it was not always easy it also was not real bad either. Yes, 3 hands would help. I've always just pushed the tool into the filter, pushed the fuel line in towards the filter, and it usually just pops out. Sometimes it takes a few tries. The last time I did it it was actually disconnected but I didn't realize it. It just needed a slight yank. I'm wondering if everyone is having more trouble because of pressure in the fuel line.
New User
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 13
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From: Georgia
Exactly. (maybe).. Which is why i want to get the Fuel pressure gauge with the bleed valve so I can relieve the excess fuel and to test the pressure of the line. Going by a manual. they do mention other methods without the use of the gauge. messing with sensors and what not.
Cargo Master
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 2,858
Likes: 3
From: Friendswood, Texas
Originally Posted by NON
Where can I get a disconect tool as well. When I ask people look at me like I am crazy and tell me to go the dealership.
Senior User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 253
Likes: 0
From: topeka
therealulysses,
Since you had a 91 could you tell me where on the vehicle is the dang fuel filter? I can't see it on either frame rail or under the hood from top or bottom view. chiltons is no help.
Since you had a 91 could you tell me where on the vehicle is the dang fuel filter? I can't see it on either frame rail or under the hood from top or bottom view. chiltons is no help.