Replacing The Fuel Filter In Your Classic 68 Mustang

Changing the fuel filter on a 68 Mustang is a simple task that can be done at home in under 30 minutes. The fuel filter is located in front of the gas tank on the passenger side. Before starting, it is important to relieve the fuel pressure and let the car sit overnight to ensure there is no pressure on the lines. Approximately 6 oz of fuel will stream from the hoses and the filter, so it is recommended to use a pan to catch it. The next steps involve removing the old filter and installing the new one, ensuring the lines are connected securely.

The fuel filter is located almost directly above the differential

To change the fuel filter on a 68 Mustang, first, securely raise the rear of the vehicle using ramps or a jack with jack stands. The fuel filter is located almost directly above the differential. Place a drain pan under the filter to collect any fuel spillage.

Next, remove the plastic retaining clips securing both lines and slide the lines off. You may need to use a flathead screwdriver to pry the clips open. Loosen the retaining clamp using a 5/16" nut driver. Slide the filter out of the bracket.

Now, install the new filter. Simply press the filter into the housing. The tapered edge will allow the line to push the spring out of the way and click into place.

Finally, reverse the removal process to reinstall everything else. Ensure the fuel lines are connected securely and use the supplied plastic retaining clips to secure the lines to the filter.

Use a 5/16th inch spring lock release tool

To remove the fuel filter, you will need to use a 5/16th inch spring lock release tool. This is a special tool that is designed to remove the spring lock fittings connecting the fuel lines to the filter. The spring lock fittings have a captured coiled spring inside, similar to a ballpoint pen spring bent into a circle.

First, you will need to remove the plastic retaining clips securing both lines and slide the lines off. Then, use the 5/16th inch spring lock release tool to push the spring lock out of the way. Insert the tool into the fuel filter line and slide it towards the outside. You will feel resistance when the tool meets the spring, and then you will feel it click when the spring releases. Once the tool clicks into place, you can pull the fuel line away from the fuel filter.

It may take some effort to get the lines disconnected if they haven't been removed in a while. You may need to wrestle with it and use vice grips or channel locks to rotate the fitting back and forth while trying to pull the two apart. Make sure you have the correct size tool and that it is inserted correctly.

After you have disconnected the fuel lines, you can then remove the fuel filter from its bracket.

Release fuel pressure before changing the filter

To release the fuel pressure before changing the filter on a 68 Mustang, you can try the following methods:

• Wait for the car to cool down: It is recommended to wait for several hours after your car has been sitting idle, as the fuel pressure would have decreased by then.
• Disconnect the fuel pump fuse: You can disconnect the fuel pump fuse and try to start the car for a second to release the remaining pressure.
• Use a screwdriver on the Schrader valve: There is a Schrader valve on the passenger side fuel rail with a black cap. Using a screwdriver on this valve can help release the pressure. However, some Mustang models might not have this valve.
• Disconnect the fuel safety switch: Disconnecting the fuel safety switch in the trunk and turning the car over several times can help clear the fuel line and relieve the pressure. Ensure you are wearing safety glasses as there might be some fuel release.

Please note that it is important to relieve the fuel pressure before changing the filter to avoid any potential hazards.

Drain fuel from the hoses and filter

To drain the fuel from the hoses and filter of a 1968 Mustang, follow these steps:

First, let the car sit overnight so there is no pressure on the lines. Place a drain pan or bucket underneath the filter to catch the fuel. Approximately 6 ounces of fuel will stream from the hoses and the filter, so be prepared to collect this fuel and dispose of it properly.

Next, remove the plastic retaining clips that secure both lines by prying them out with a screwdriver. Push the bottom of the clips open with your hand while prying up with the screwdriver. Once the clips are removed, slide the fuel lines off.

Now, grab a 5/16 nut driver and loosen the retaining clamp. You can then slide the filter out of its bracket. After the filter is removed, you can install the new filter and reverse the rest of the process to put everything back together.

Reinstallation is easy

The whole process of reinstallation should take just a few minutes. It is a simple DIY task that can be done in your driveway in less than 15 minutes.

Frequently asked questions