I'm trying to change the fuel filter and was unable to remove the fuel Lines attached to the filter, The is a Technical article about removing the fuel filter using a special tool, where can I get this or even better, what else have people used to get the lines disconnected from the filter?

Thanks

--AS

 

Nothing else, just need the tool. Try Auto Zone.

 

Whoever designed the fittings on the fuel filter on my F-150, I would like to ask a few questions too. In my opinion it is a poor design, and NEVER easy to get off. There are several tools available, plastic, aluminum, metal, and a scisssors type that fits both fittings. First, I spray some air duster (used for computers) in the fitting openings, to get any sand or dirt out, and keep it out of the O rings inside. Then I use the tool pull the fitting back as far as it will go and press the tool in. In theory it looks like a simple system until you try it. Even experienced mechanics have problems. I would also hate to think what you do when the O ring needs replacing.

 

I know many who would disagree. I think these things are a cinch to change. I've changed these for years and I thoght they were easy the first time. In fact my 12 year old is working on his automotive merit badge and he changed mine last week by himself with very little coaching.

 

I found changing it to be a major pain in the a$$.

First I would spray a little WD40 in the fitting it someone else mentioned this and it seemed to help me. Also when you put the disconnect tool in as far as it will go rock the fuel line as you pull it moves slowly at first but eventfully you'll get.

I let my truck sit overnight and very little fuel came out of the line but I would have plenty of rags just in case. Also I would suggest getting some rubber stoppers or something to plug the holes of the old filter.

Then comes the fun part getting g*d d*mn filter out of it's bracket. I found this to be very hard to do if there is some sort of trick to it let me know. Then when I put the new one in I slightly bent the filter tubes so I had to bend them back so the fuel lines would go on. Luckily there was no stress cracks in the metal.

Before I started my little project I figured how hard could it be I work on all kinds of PC,Laptop and Printer equipment as well as troubleshoot and install router and server racks. I figured if your mechanically inclined in one area surely it would carry over into other areas as well.

Granted I did not have my truck on any kind of lift which I think would have been a big advantage I did not think it would be as much of a pain in the a$$ as it was.

 

I didn't have any problem removing the old filter, it was the leaking fuel afterward that had me scratching my head.. Fortunately it eventually stopped leaking though.

 

if you get leaks/drips, it may not be your replacement. I'm told that the O-rings are cheap and prone to failure.

 

Count me on the side of "It's a major pain in the A$$ to change" group. I used the plastic tool from the local auto parts store and it took me a lot longer than what I expected. Definitely use the compressed air to blow out any debris that could hinder the release. I also let my truck sit overnight and didn't have much gas leaking out. I just take the easy way out now and pay the dealer the $15 for replacing it when I take it in for my free oil changes.

 

I am having trouble with mine also. I will try the compresesed air idea.

Here is the thread that i have going on the same topic.

https://www.f150online.com/forums/sh...hreadid=121840

 

Mine was real easy to change once I got hold of the right tool. I went out and bought some auto air-conditioner hose tools, thinking that they were the fuel filter tools. Needless to say, it didn't work. But once I got the correct tool, I had the filter changed in about 10 minutes. It's pretty easy if you ask me.

 

Peacemaker ... what did that tool look like.

 

Ive changed my fuel filter in dress clothes (not a suit but not jeans and a t shirt either, slacks and a button up shirt) once. I was heading out and had locked up and everything and i remembered i had the filter on my seat. I just got under there and swapped it out. I think its really easy once you know what your doing, hardest part is actually removing the filter from that clamp its in, the connections are a piece of cake to me, not sure what the big fuss is. I bought a reall nice disconnect tool from a some small discount auto store, its not the scissors kind, its circular and hinged on one end, kinda like a ms pacman. Works great for me.

 

F150NKY,

The tools are made of plastic and they are cylindrical shaped with a thin notch cut through it so the tool will fit over the fuel line. The tool just slides into the ends of the filter where the fuel lines go into it(the filter). Just push the tool in there, and the line should pop right off. You might have to pull on the lines a little once you have the tool inserted to get it to work. You can get these tools at Advance Auto, AutoZone, Pep Boy's, etc...Just about any parts store should have them. Just ask for help if you don't know what they look like. Hope I helped.