Changing Fuel Filters: 1995 F150 Maintenance Guide

how to change a fuel filter on a 1995 f150

Changing the fuel filter on a 1995 Ford F-150 is a relatively simple task that can be performed by a novice truck owner or tackled by a local mechanic. It is important to relieve the pressure from the fuel system before attempting to remove the fuel filter. This can be done by tripping the inertia fuel reset switch, which is located under the dash on the driver's side. Once the pressure has been relieved, the fuel filter can be located just under the driver's side door. To remove the fuel filter, the metal retaining clip must be unhooked and the line compression removal tool must be positioned on the filter's front end. Finally, a tiny bit of pressure is applied, sliding the line compression removal tool into the line fitting until it slides off. It is important to have towels handy as fuel tends to gush out during this step. The process is then repeated for the rear of the filter.

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Relieve the pressure from the fuel system

To relieve the pressure from the fuel system of a 1995 F150, start by removing the fuse cover located under the hood on the driver's side. Then, trip the inertia fuel reset switch, which should have a red rubber top. This is one of the few maintenance routines you should perform with your engine running. You should be able to disable the switch by tapping it in the middle with the end of your rubber mallet. You will know you have been successful when the motor gives out.

Alternatively, you can depress the Schrader valve on the fuel rail on the passenger side of the engine to de-pressurize the lines. You can also remove the fuel pump relay and crank the engine over. This will cause the engine to die and relieve some pressure, but usually not all of it.

Another method is to loosen the gas caps and run the gas out of the lines. On some models, there is a 3-position switch on the tank selector, and you can set it to the middle position to run the gas out of the lines.

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Remove the fuel filter

To remove the fuel filter from your 1995 F150, you must first relieve the pressure from the fuel system. Start by removing the fuse cover located under the hood on the driver's side. Then, trip the inertia fuel reset switch, which should have a red rubber top. You can disable the switch by tapping it in the middle with the end of a rubber mallet. Once the motor gives out, you have successfully completed this step.

Next, locate the fuel filter. It is found in the section of your F-150 that is just under the driver's side door. To remove it, first unhook the metal retaining clip. Then, position the line compression removal tool so that it rests on the filter's front end. Apply a small amount of pressure and slide the line compression removal tool into the line fitting until it slides off. Keep towels handy, as fuel tends to gush out during this step. Repeat this process for the rear of the filter, applying minimal pressure.

Once both ends of the line fitting have been removed, use a flat-blade screwdriver to disconnect the dirty filter. Be sure to wear eye protection and exercise caution during this step, as gasoline can splash and cause serious injury.

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Disconnect the hoses

Disconnecting the hoses from your 1995 F150's fuel filter is a relatively simple task, but it requires careful attention to safety precautions. Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary tools, including a fuel line compression removal tool and a pair of safety gloves. It is also highly recommended that you wear eye protection to safeguard your eyes from any potential splashes of gasoline.

To start, relieve the pressure from the fuel system. This can be done by removing the fuse cover located under the hood on the driver's side and tripping the inertia fuel reset switch, which should have a red rubber top. You can disable the switch by tapping it in the middle with the end of a rubber mallet.

Now, locate the fuel filter. It is positioned on the frame rail, on the driver's side, just behind the door. To disconnect the hoses, begin by unhooking the metal retaining clip that holds the hose in place. Then, position the line compression removal tool at the front end of the fuel filter and apply a small amount of pressure to slide the tool into the line fitting. You may need to slide the filter partially out of its bracket to gain better access. Listen for a click, which indicates that you have successfully disengaged the locking device from the filter.

At this point, carefully pull the hose away from the filter, being mindful that fuel will start to drain out. Use a dust cap or a container to control the mess and minimize fuel leakage. Maneuver the hose so that it is raised to further reduce the amount of fuel escaping.

Repeat this process for the rear hose. First, remove the metal retaining clip, then insert the line compression removal tool, and finally, disconnect the hose. With both hoses disconnected, use a flat-blade screwdriver to completely detach the old fuel filter.

Now you are ready to install the new fuel filter. Ensure that the flow arrow on the new filter is pointing towards the front end of your F150. Securely attach the hoses to the new filter, listening for the click that indicates a successful connection. Reattach the retaining clips, and you're done!

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Replace the filter

To replace the fuel filter on your 1995 F150, you will need a medium flathead screwdriver and a 5/16 line compression removal tool.

First, relieve the pressure from the fuel system. Do this by removing the fuse cover located under the hood on the driver's side and tripping the inertia fuel reset switch, which should have a red rubber top. This is one of the few maintenance routines you should perform with your engine running. Disable the switch by tapping it in the middle with the end of your rubber mallet. You will know you have been successful when the motor gives out.

Next, remove the old fuel filter. It is located on the frame rail, on the driver's side, just behind the door. To remove it, unhook the metal retaining clip and position the line compression removal tool so that it rests on the filter's front end. Then, apply a tiny bit of pressure, sliding the line compression removal tool into the line fitting until it slides off. Keep towels handy, as fuel will gush out during this step. Repeat this process at the rear of the filter, applying as little pressure as possible. Once both ends of the line fitting have been removed, use your flat blade screwdriver to disconnect the dirty filter.

Now, install the new filter. Make sure it is positioned so that the flow arrow is pointing towards the front end of your F150. Once the new filter is in place, reconnect the front line and hook the retaining clip back into position. Repeat this process for the rear line.

Finally, reset and test. With the new filter in place, reset the inertia switch by clicking the red button once more. Cycle the ignition a few times before checking for leakage and remember to keep the engine running when testing out your new filter.

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Reset and test

Once you have installed the new filter, you will need to reset and test it to make sure it is working correctly.

First, reset the inertia switch by clicking the red button once more. Then, cycle the ignition a few times, keeping the engine running, and check for any leaks.

You can also try running the engine for a while to see if the new filter has improved your gas mileage or acceleration. If you are still experiencing problems, there may be another issue with your truck.

It is important to note that some people have reported difficulty in finding the inertia switch in their 1995 F-150. It is supposed to be under the dash on the driver's side, on the firewall, to the left of the brake pedal, or behind the kick panel. However, some people have reported that it is actually on the passenger side. So, if you can't find it at first, don't panic; it may just be in a different location than expected.

Frequently asked questions

You will need a special tool or its equivalent to disconnect the filter from the lines. You can find these tools at most good auto supply stores.

Yes, you should relieve the gas pressure before removing the fuel filter. You can do this by starting the truck and toggling the red button with a screwdriver. If there is no button, pull off the electrical connection. The gas pressure will be removed as the engine sucks up what is left in the fuel line, and the truck will stall.

The fuel filter is located on the frame rail, on the driver's side, just behind the door.

Make sure you put the filter in correctly, with the flow to the front.

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