I have changed the fuel filter in my 1994 F150 (4.9L, 5 speed manual) 9 or 10 times and it is a job that I always dread! (I actually enjoy most scheduled maintenance.) After I release the inlet and outlet hoses (with the special "scissor" tool) the cussing begins. The clamp around the filter is so strong that you almost need three hands (one for each half of the saddle clamp and the third to yank out the filter). You can't move the filter forward or backward due to the rolled lip at one end. Is there some trick or special tool that I'm missing?

 

well since the old one is trash anyways i just jam a big standerd screwdriver at the badckof it and pry it out...but thats just my 2 cents

 

Try twisting and wiggling the tool around a little. It shuold release the clip pretty completely. If not go for the screwdriver deal. Just don't mash up the end of the fuel line.

Good Luck!

 

Spray some penetrating oil on the inside of the clip. Push the tool in and remove it a few times and then spray it again. This should free up the crud that accumulates in there and make removal that much easier.

JMC

 

If I'm reading your question correctly, you're asking how to make it easier to get the filter out of the clamp/bracket, so that's what I'll answer. You aren't supposed to try and wrestle it out, you just unbolt it from the frame. There are two studs on the bracket that go through the frame, and are held in place by 2 nuts, 10mm, I believe. Remove those two nuts, and the bracket and filter will slide right out. Once you have it on your bench, remove the filter from the bracket.

HTH

Take care,
~Chris

 

OOPS! I just push the hoses out of the way and pry it out with a screwdriver.

JMC

 

Chris,

You read it right. I don't have any problem with the hose connections, it is the wicked filter clamp. Unfortunately mine is riveted to the frame. I have often considered grinding off the rivets and replacing them with bolts and nuts.

Something like a rib spreader would work well ... does anyone know a cardiologist? :-)

 

Yeah, I know one real well, he's my doctor.

I'd drill the rivets out, and replace them with new rivets when you're done. Hell, that's even easier than removing two nuts.

I just did the filter again in my '95 less than a month ago, and I know exactly what you're going through, right down to the pain in the tips of your fingers as you almost get the filter out. Trust me, drill out and replace the rivets.