Ok, I got the shocks done with the help of you guys. I know have a question of replacing the fuel filter. I know on my 86 it was a PITA, so I had it done by my mechanic. If it is similar I will pass again, but if it is not too difficult I may attempt to tackle it myself.

 

On my 2000 Nav the fuel filter is on drivers side about mid ship---just above the frame underneath. It is a filter that attaches to the metal lines with a special clip on both ends of the lines ---to release the clip you need a special little tool sold at most auto stores---mine are plastic---basically it fits over the metal end on the filter and you slide it into the fuel line =--when it goes in it pushes up the release on the line that holds to the filter---very hard to explain----but the tool comes with about four different plastic sizes---probably less than $5. They do make metal ones--and of course you only need one the correct size---that will be obvious.

I struggled with this initially---I pushed the tool in but didn't realize you have to pull on the line pretty hard to get it off the filter---once I knew to do that it's a piece of cake on a lift---if you don't have access to a lift it will be more difficult and you'll probably get fuel down your arm---but you should be able to do it.


The proper procedure is to release the fuel pressure in the line before you do this---in my case I just make sure the engine has been off for a while---over an hour---that seems to reduce the pressure in the line---and you won't loose too much fuel but of course the filter holds probably 8oz----

Be safe---no sparks---etc---I've done it many times---hope it works for you

 

What's the service interval on that?

 

From top of my head, I think:
Haynes = 15k
Manual = 30k

Replaced mine after 25 k and it was not bad, not clogged or restricted. So I guess I will do every 25-30k.

There are exceptions of course, bad gas, water in the tank and the like would necessitate immediate replacement.

With the hassle of replacing it, I wish they made the filter bigger, our Volvo V70 can do 50-60k before replacement, but then again, the mpg is twice as much, and the filter itself is probably 3x as big.

 

De-pressurizing the fuel system will reduce the initial fuel spray, but the filter will still be full. To reduce getting fuel all over you, when you remove the line from one side of the filter, push a golf tee in the line stub on the filter. Then, when you remove the other line, tilt that side of the filter up when you remove it. A lot less fuel down the arms that way.

 

I replace mine after almost every winter - we have old gas stations around here and seem to always have water issues in the winter. I also run isopropyl gas treatment with every other fill up too. I noticed the water issue has gotten much worse with the use of Ethanol in the gas. Anyway it works out to about 15K, easy to take off after you do it the first time.

If you can have a mechanic do it the first time and watch how they push the tool in and pop the line off - they may even pop the hood and release fuel pressure by pressing on the schrader valve - make a mental note to remember where this is on your vehicle for the next time.

I did this after struggling for a couple of hours the first time and now I can do all my Ford/Lincolns. Safety Note: ALWAYS wear goggles - gas in the eyes sucks - trust me on this!!!!!!!

 

Thanks for the info guys, I am going to get the tool and give it a try. Not now though, I am doing it in the driveway and I don't want to have to be turned over when I am done, man is it HOT!!!!.