Replacing Fuel Injectors: Step-By-Step Guide For 2007 Ford Explorers

If you're experiencing engine misfires, poor gas mileage, or a rough and choppy idle in your 2007 Ford Explorer, it may be time to inspect or change your fuel injectors. Fuel injectors regulate the amount of pressurised fuel used for each engine cycle and there is one injector per cylinder. In this article, we will cover the steps to change the fuel injectors on a 2007 Ford Explorer, as well as the tools and parts required for the job. We will also discuss the potential costs involved and the benefits of replacing fuel injectors.

Depressurise the fuel line

Depressurizing the fuel line in your 2007 Ford Explorer is a crucial step in changing the fuel injectors, as it ensures your safety by relieving the intense pressure in the fuel system. Here is a detailed guide on how to safely depressurize the fuel line:

Pressure Valve Method:

• Open the hood of your Ford Explorer.
• Loosen and remove the negative battery cable by lifting it from the terminal. Disconnecting the negative cable is essential for this method.
• Unscrew and remove the gas cap.
• Locate the cap on the fuel supply manifold. Remove this cap.
• Connect a pressure gauge to the pressure relief valve.
• Use the valve to drain the fuel into a sealable container, such as a plastic jug or a drain pan.
• Once the excess fuel is drained, press the pressure relief button.
• Unhook the pressure gauge and replace the cap on the fuel supply manifold.

Fuel Pump Relay Method:

• Remove the fuel pump relay, which is typically located in the engine bay fuse box. Refer to your owner's manual fuse diagram if you need help locating it.
• Unscrew and remove the gas cap, ensuring the fuel access door remains open.
• Crank the engine for about five seconds. If the engine starts, let it idle until it shuts off due to fuel depletion.
• To complete the depressurization, burn the excess fuel in the lines by letting the engine idle until it sputters and turns off.
• As a final step, disconnect the negative battery cable.

Repressurizing the Fuel System:

After successfully depressurizing and replacing the fuel injectors, you will need to repressurize the fuel system:

• Reconnect the negative battery cable, gas cap, and fuel pump relay (if removed).
• Turn the ignition on for a few seconds, then turn it off.
• Repeat the process of turning the ignition on and off a few times to rebuild fuel system pressure.

Note: Always exercise caution when working with your vehicle's fuel system. Do not smoke or perform the procedure near open flames. Wear gloves and goggles for protection during the process.

Disconnect the vacuum hoses and electronics

Disconnecting the vacuum hoses and electronics is a crucial step when changing the fuel injectors on a 2007 Ford Explorer. This step ensures that you can safely access the fuel injectors and related components for maintenance or replacement. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Disconnecting the Vacuum Hoses:

• Start by locating the air intake tube, which is connected to the throttle body and the air filter box. Disconnect the tube and set it aside safely.
• Identify any vacuum lines or devices that may be restricting access to the fuel rails. Carefully disconnect and remove these vacuum lines to provide better access to the fuel system.

Disconnecting the Electronics:

• The fuel injectors are connected to the chrome fuel rail, and they have electronics that need to be unplugged. Carefully disconnect the electronics from each fuel injector.
• Now, focus on the fuel rail itself. There are two bolts securing the fuel rail to the engine. Use the appropriate tools to remove these bolts.
• With the bolts removed, carefully lift the fuel rail from the fuel injectors. You may need to gently rock the fuel rail from side to side to disengage it from each injector head. Be cautious, as the fuel rail is rigid, and ensure you do not spill fuel from the nozzles.
• Once the fuel rail is removed, wipe away any spilled fuel or allow it to evaporate before proceeding to the next steps of inspecting and replacing the fuel injectors.

Remember, it is important to work cautiously and follow the correct procedures when working on your vehicle's fuel system. Always refer to a qualified mechanic or a detailed repair guide if you are unsure about any steps or procedures.

Remove the fuel rail

To remove the fuel rail from a 2007 Ford Explorer, you'll need to follow these steps:

First, release the fuel system pressure. This is an important step to ensure that the fuel injectors are not under pressure when you start working on them. Next, disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical hazards. Then, remove the intake manifold, which will give you access to the fuel rail and injectors.

Now, you'll need to disconnect the high-pressure fuel pump electrical connector and the sensor connector. Be careful when handling these components, and make sure to spread the openings to reduce the risk of damage. Remove the high-pressure fuel pump noise insulator as well.

Disconnect the electrical connector and detach the wiring harness retainers, moving them out of the way. Remove the nuts and bracket holding the high-pressure fuel tube in place. Wrap the high-pressure fuel pump flare nut with a shop towel to catch any residual fuel, then remove the high-pressure fuel tube bracket bolt and stud bolt. Loosen the high-pressure fuel tube flare nuts and disconnect the tube, then remove and discard it.

Detach the wire harness retainers from the fuel rail, and remove the fuel rail insulator. Disconnect the fuel rail pressure sensor electrical connector and move the fuel rail wire harness out of the way.

At this point, you can start to remove the fuel rail. Pull out the fuel rail in the direction of the fuel injector axis to avoid damaging the injectors. The fuel injectors may remain in the cylinder head, so you'll need to use a Fuel Injector Remover tool to extract them. Wiggling and twisting the injector by hand can help break it loose.

Once the fuel rail is removed, you can clean the area with compressed air to remove any dirt or foreign material. Then, remove the fuel injectors from the fuel rail and discard the fuel injector clips. Be careful not to use too much force, as this may damage the fuel injector assembly.

Remove the old fuel injectors

To remove the old fuel injectors from your 2007 Ford Explorer, you'll need to follow a step-by-step process to ensure a safe and proper procedure. Here's a detailed guide with 4 to 6 paragraphs:

Depressurize the Fuel System: Start by opening the passenger side kick plate and locating the fuel safety cut-off switch. Unplug the switch to turn off the fuel pump. Attempt to start the engine several times to reduce the fuel pressure in the lines. It is crucial to depressurize the fuel system before proceeding to avoid any safety hazards.

Disconnect the Battery and Related Components: Disconnect the vehicle's battery to ensure that there is no power going to the fuel injectors during the removal process. Then, disconnect the vacuum hoses and electronics connected to the air intake tube. Remove the air intake tube by disconnecting it from the throttle body and air filter box. Set it aside in a safe place. Remove any vacuum lines or devices that may restrict access to the fuel rails.

Unplug the Fuel Injectors: The fuel injectors will be connected to the fuel rail, which is typically made of chrome. Unplug the electronics from each fuel injector to isolate them.

Remove the Fuel Rail: There are usually two bolts securing the fuel rail to the engine. Remove these bolts and carefully lift the fuel rail from the fuel injectors. You may need to rock the fuel rail side to side to gently disengage it from each injector head. Be cautious, as fuel may spill from the fuel rail nozzles. Wipe away any spilled fuel or allow it to evaporate before continuing.

Inspect the Fuel Injector Heads: Before removing the fuel injectors, inspect the heads for the presence of O-rings. O-rings are essential for creating a tight seal. If an O-ring is not visible on the fuel injector, look inside the fuel rail and remove it. Ensure you account for all O-rings, as they are crucial for preventing leaks.

Remove the Fuel Injectors: Each fuel injector is typically held in place by a single retaining bolt. Remove this bolt and move it away from the engine to avoid losing it inside the engine compartment. Grasp each injector firmly and pull upward to dislodge it from the engine. If necessary, gently rock the injector back and forth until it pulls free. Avoid using pliers or excessive force, as you may damage the injectors.

By following these steps, you will be able to safely and effectively remove the old fuel injectors from your 2007 Ford Explorer. Remember to have a suitable container or rag handy to catch any spilled fuel during the process. Always exercise caution when working with fuel, and ensure proper ventilation in your work area.

Install the new fuel injectors

To install the new fuel injectors, you will need to follow these steps:

Firstly, lubricate the new O-rings with clean engine oil. Ensure you use high-quality, OEM parts for the replacement. Place each fuel injector, nozzle first, into the injector hole. Align the retaining bolt hole with the hole on the engine. You should press the injector downwards to allow the O-ring to be seated in the engine. You may feel a slight popping sensation as the O-rings are seated. A properly seated injector will resist upward pulling. Insert and tighten the retaining bolt for each injector.

Next, connect the fuel rails to the injectors. Align each fuel injector head with the fuel rail connection. The fuel rail will have more room at the front of the engine than at the back. Work from the back of the engine forward during alignment to ensure each injector head remains connected to the fuel rail. Press down on the fuel rail over each injector, working from back to front, until all injectors are properly seated. As with the engine, a properly seated injector will resist disconnection.

Then, connect the fuel injector electronics plug. Install all vacuum lines, components removed, air intake, and electronics in their original position. Attach the vehicle's battery. Reconnect the fuel safety cut-off switch inside the passenger kick plate of the vehicle's cab.

Finally, turn the ignition key to "electronics-only" mode. Wait 10 seconds for the fuel lines to pressurize. Turn the key off and repeat this process. Inspect the fuel rails for leaks. Start the engine to check the installation.

Frequently asked questions