Exploring Fuel Filter Changes In A '99 Explorer

Changing the fuel filter on a 1999 Ford Explorer can be a challenging task, especially if it's your first time. The fuel filter is located on the left frame rail, underneath the vehicle, and is secured by a metal spring clip. Before attempting any work, it is crucial to ensure there is no fuel pressure in the system to avoid spills and accidents. To do this, release the fuel pump relay or trip the inertia switch.

The fuel lines are locked in place with two stainless steel spring clips, which must be carefully unhooked. These clips often get clogged with dirt and rust, making it challenging to release the fuel lines. Applying WD40 or brake/parts cleaner can help lubricate and flush out any dirt. It is also important to have the right tools, such as metal line disconnect tools, to avoid damaging the components.

Several online forums and videos provide detailed step-by-step instructions and visual guides to assist with this process. It is recommended to refer to these resources and take necessary precautions before attempting to change the fuel filter on your 1999 Ford Explorer.

The fuel filter is located on the left frame rail, under your left foot

To change the fuel filter on a 1999 Ford Explorer, you'll first need to locate it. The fuel filter is located on the left frame rail, under your left foot.

Now, onto the process of changing it. Firstly, with the engine running, pull the fuel pump relay, or trip the inertia switch, to release the fuel pressure in the fuel line. The engine will then stall. Next, you'll need to address the fuel lines, which are locked in place on the filter with two stainless steel spring clips. These must be carefully unhooked before proceeding. It's worth noting that these clips often get clogged with dirt and rust and can be challenging to release. To address this, spray WD40 or brake/parts cleaner into the fitting to help lubricate it and flush out any dirt. Once the fuel line moves in and out with ease, you can put the 5/16 disconnect tool into the end of the filter, pushing the line in and pushing the disconnect tool in simultaneously. You may find it easier to leave the filter in its retainer while releasing the fuel line, as it can act as an extra hand. Using a pair of pliers behind the tool can also aid in getting it fully inserted. Sometimes, rotating the tool can also help. Repeat this process for the other end of the filter. Some fuel will spill, so be prepared to catch it.

Now, for installation. Simply push the fuel line into the filter until it clicks and locks into place. There is an arrow on the filter to ensure you install it facing the right direction. Finally, re-install the two stainless steel retainers and replace the fuel pump relay (or reset the inertia switch). Before starting the engine for the first time, turn the key on and off four to five times to prime the fuel system.

Release fuel pressure before attempting to remove the filter

To release the fuel pressure in your 1999 Ford Explorer, you must first park the vehicle on level ground, with the fuel tank below the level of the fuel filter.

Next, locate the fuel pump relay. This is usually found in the power distribution box under the hood, or in the relay box inside the vehicle's left front fender. Once located, pull the fuel pump relay. Alternatively, you can trip the inertia switch. This will release the fuel pressure in the fuel line, causing the engine to stall.

Now that the fuel pressure has been released, you can proceed to remove the fuel filter. It is located on the left frame rail, under your left foot. It snaps into a metal spring clip on the frame. The fuel lines are locked in place with two stainless steel spring clips, which must be carefully unhooked. These clips often get clogged with dirt and rust, so you may need to spray WD40 or brake/parts cleaner into the fitting to help lubricate and flush out any dirt.

Once the spring clips are removed, you can then remove the fuel filter. Be prepared for some fuel spillage, so have something on hand to catch it.

Use a removal tool to disconnect the filter

To disconnect the fuel filter on a 1999 Ford Explorer, you will need a fuel filter removal tool. This can be purchased from Ford or another manufacturer. The correct tool size for this model is 5/16".

Before using the removal tool, you must release the fuel pressure in the lines. To do this, open the fuel cap to release pressure in the tank. Then, with the engine running, pull the fuel pump relay or trip the fuel-cutoff inertia switch to release the pressure in the lines and fuel rails.

Now, you can use the removal tool to disconnect the fuel filter. First, push the fuel line into the filter slightly to get the tool in far enough. Insert the tool into the end of the filter and push it in while simultaneously pushing the line into the filter. You may need to rotate the tool to dislodge any dirt and rust. Some gas will spill, so have something ready to catch it.

Once the tool is fully inserted, pull the line out of the filter. Pliers can be useful here to help get the tool fully inserted. Repeat this process for the other end of the filter.

After the filter is removed, inspect the retaining clip, fitting end, and connector. Replace the clip if any damage is apparent.

A special tool is available from Ford to remove the retaining clips

To change the fuel filter on a 1999 Ford Explorer, you will need to remove the retaining clips. A special tool is available from Ford and other manufacturers for this purpose. The tool is designed to remove the retaining clips without damaging them.

The tool in question is the Ford Tool T82L-9300-AH or its equivalent. This tool can be purchased from most parts stores. If you do not have access to this tool, there are alternative methods to removing the retaining clips, but it is important to proceed with caution to avoid damage.

One alternative method is to use a pair of narrow 6-inch slip-jaw pliers with a jaw width of 0.2 inches (3mm) or less. To use this method, align the jaws of the pliers with the openings of the fitting case and compress the part of the retaining clip that engages the case. It is important to compress both sides of the clip at the same time to disengage it successfully.

Once the retaining clips have been removed, you can proceed with the rest of the fuel filter replacement process. It is important to inspect the retaining clips, fitting end, and connector for any damage and replace the clip if necessary.

The fuel lines are locked in place on the filter with two stainless steel spring clips, which must be unhooked. These can be removed to get them out of the way and then re-installed once the new filter is in place. It is also important to ensure that the fuel line can move in and out of the filter fairly easily before attempting to remove the old filter. This may require lubricating the fitting with WD40 or brake/parts cleaner.

Overall, having the right tools and taking the necessary precautions will make changing the fuel filter on your 1999 Ford Explorer a much smoother process.

If you don't have the special tool, use narrow slip-jaw pliers to compress the retaining clip

If you don't have the special tool, you can use narrow slip-jaw pliers to compress the retaining clip. You will need a pair of narrow 6-inch slip-jaw pliers with a jaw width of 0.2 inches (3mm) or less.

First, align the jaws of the pliers with the openings of the fitting case. Compress the part of the retaining clip that engages the case. Compressing the retaining clip will release the fitting, which may then be pulled from the connector. It is important to compress both sides of the clip at the same time to disengage it.

Before you begin this process, it is recommended that you inspect the retaining clip, fitting end, and connector. If any damage is apparent, replace the clip.

After removing the clip, push the line into the steel connector. You will hear a click when the clip is in place. Pull on the line to check that it is properly engaged.

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