Replacing The Fuel Filter In Your Classic 1986 Ford F150

Changing the fuel filter in your 1986 Ford F-150 is a simple task that can save you a trip to the mechanic. The fuel filter is located under the hood, in the engine area, next to the carburetor, and can be replaced in a few simple steps. First, relieve the pressure from the fuel system by removing the fuse cover and tripping the inertia fuel reset switch. Next, remove the fuel filter by unhooking the metal retaining clip and using a line compression removal tool to slide off the line fitting. Repeat this process for the rear of the filter, being careful as fuel will gush out. Then, disconnect the dirty filter with a flat-blade screwdriver. Install the new filter, ensuring the flow arrow points towards the front end of the F-150. Finally, reset the inertia switch and test for leakage.

The fuel filter is located under the hood, next to the carburetor

To change the fuel filter on your 1986 Ford F150, you'll first need to locate it. The fuel filter is located under the hood, next to the carburetor. It's in the fuel line and should be easy to spot.

Now, onto the process of changing it. First, relieve the pressure from the fuel system. Do this by removing the fuse cover located under the hood on the driver's side. Then, trip the inertia fuel reset switch, which will have a red rubber top. You can disable the switch by tapping it in the middle with a rubber mallet.

Next, remove the fuel filter. Unhook the metal retaining clip and position a 5/16 line compression removal tool at the front end of the filter. Apply a small amount of pressure and slide the tool into the line fitting until it slides off. Fuel will likely gush out during this step, so have some towels on hand. Repeat this process at the rear of the filter, being careful to apply minimal pressure. Once both ends of the line fitting are removed, use a flat-blade screwdriver to disconnect the dirty filter.

Now, it's time to install the new filter. Make sure to position it so that the flow arrow is pointing towards the front end of your F150. Reconnect the front line and hook the retaining clip back into place. Repeat this for the rear line.

Finally, reset and test your new filter. Reset the inertia switch by clicking the red button. Cycle the ignition a few times and check for any leaks, keeping the engine running during this process.

And that's it! You've successfully changed the fuel filter on your 1986 Ford F150. Remember to perform this maintenance every 10,000 miles or so to keep your truck running smoothly.

You'll need a special tool to remove the QD fittings from the filter

When changing the fuel filter on a 1986 Ford F-150, you will need a special tool to remove the QD fittings from the filter. QD stands for quick-disconnect fittings, which are used in fuel lines. These fittings are designed to be easily separated with the right tool.

You can find the necessary tool at your local parts store or online. Look for a package of plastic Quick-Disconnect fitting tools. Specifically, you want the round plastic ones, which should cost around $8-10. Do not get the metal scissor-looking tool, as it is not effective for this task.

Once you have the correct tool, you can slide it into the QD fitting. It should easily release with a slight wiggle. Be prepared for fuel to spray everywhere, as the pressure in the lines will cause the fuel to go everywhere once the lines are disconnected.

If you are having trouble finding the correct tool, look for a Lisle angled QD fuel-line kit. This is a popular option and can be found at your local tool outlet or online.

Depressurise the fuel system by removing the fuse for the fuel pump

Depressurising the fuel system in your 1986 Ford F150 is an important step before replacing the fuel filter, as it will prevent a dangerous spray of fuel when you remove the filter.

One way to do this is by removing the fuse for the fuel pump. First, locate the fuse box in your vehicle. It may be under the dashboard on the driver's side or under the hood. Check the guide on the inside of the fuse box lid to find the proper fuse, which in this case is the fuel pump relay fuse. Use a fuse puller to remove it.

Once the fuse is removed, turn the ignition on and let the vehicle sputter and quit by itself. Then, turn the ignition off. Your truck will run until the fuel pressure in the lines is released and the engine dies.

After removing the fuse and letting the engine die, you can proceed with the rest of the fuel filter replacement process. Remember to push the fuel pump relay fuse back into place in the fuse box once all maintenance work is completed, or your truck won't start.

Alternatively, you can depressurise the fuel system by loosening the fuel filler cap and listening for the audible hiss to subside, indicating the pressure in the fuel tank has been released. Then, locate and loosen the fittings of the fuel lines on the filter using a flare wrench, and wait several minutes for the pressure in the lines to be fully released.

Disconnect the fuel lines from the filter

Disconnecting the fuel lines from the filter is a relatively simple task, but it can be messy, so make sure you have some towels handy. You will need a 5/16 line compression removal tool.

First, locate the fuel filter. It is in a section of your F-150 that is just under the driver’s side door. Once you have found it, unhook the metal retaining clip. Then, position the line compression removal tool so that it rests on the filter’s front end. Apply a tiny bit of pressure, sliding the tool into the line fitting until it slides off. Repeat this process at the rear of the filter, applying as little pressure as possible.

If you are having trouble locating the fuel filter, it may be between the frame rail and the gas tank.

Position the new filter so the flow arrow points towards the front of the truck

Positioning the new fuel filter correctly is crucial for the proper functioning of your 1986 Ford F150. Here is a detailed guide to ensure the new filter is positioned accurately, with the flow arrow pointing towards the front of the truck:

Firstly, locate the fuel filter. For the 1986 Ford F150, the fuel filter is situated in the engine area, next to the carburetor, and can be found in the fuel line. It is usually located under the hood on the driver's side, just under the driver's side door.

Now, with your new fuel filter ready, take note of the flow arrow marked on the filter. This arrow indicates the direction in which fuel will flow through the filter. It is imperative that this arrow points towards the front of your truck when the filter is installed.

Carefully insert the new filter into the bracket or housing from which you removed the old filter. Ensure that the flow arrow is aligned correctly, pointing towards the front of your Ford F150.

Once the new filter is in position, with the arrow pointing forward, you can proceed to reconnect the fuel lines to the filter. Start with the front line, attaching it to the front end of the filter. Gently apply a small amount of pressure to slide the line into the fitting. You may need to use a line compression removal tool for this step.

After the front line is securely connected, repeat the process for the rear line. Again, use a minimal amount of pressure to avoid damage and potential fuel leakage.

Finally, secure the fuel lines in place with the retaining clips. Reattach the metal retaining clips to both sides of the fuel lines, ensuring they are firmly in place.

By following these steps and paying close attention to the flow arrow's direction, you can be confident that your new fuel filter is positioned correctly in your 1986 Ford F150, with the arrow pointing towards the front of your truck.

Frequently asked questions