Removing Fuel Lines In A 2007 Ford Expedition

If you want to remove the fuel lines from a 2007 Ford Expedition, there are several steps you should follow. Firstly, it is important to prioritise safety by ensuring there is no smoking or open flame near any fuel-related components. The next step is to relieve the fuel system pressure and drain the fuel tank. Then, disconnect the vapor hoses and the fuel hose(s) forward of the fuel tank. Following this, you should remove the fuel pump lock ring and disconnect the quick-release fittings from the fuel pump. Finally, you can remove the fuel tank from the vehicle. It is important to note that the process may vary slightly depending on the specific model and features of your 2007 Ford Expedition.

Safety precautions

Safety should be a top priority when performing any automotive repairs or maintenance, especially when working with fuel lines. Here are some detailed safety precautions to follow when removing fuel lines from a 2007 Ford Expedition:

Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Ensure you are working in an open, well-ventilated space to avoid inhaling dangerous fumes. Fumes from gasoline and other automotive fluids can be harmful to your health.

No Flames or Sparks: Before beginning work, eliminate any potential sources of ignition. Do not smoke, carry lighters, or work with any open flames or sparks near the vehicle. Gasoline and its vapors are highly flammable and can easily ignite, leading to serious injuries and fires.

Relieve Fuel System Pressure: Before disconnecting any fuel lines or components, it is crucial to relieve the fuel system pressure. Even when the engine is off, the fuel system remains under high pressure. Relieving this pressure prevents accidental spraying of fuel, reducing the risk of fires and personal injury.

Drain the Fuel Tank: Before attempting to remove the fuel lines, drain the fuel tank as much as possible. This minimizes the risk of fuel spillage during the removal process, making it a much safer procedure.

Disconnect the Battery: To prevent any accidental electrical shorts or arcing, disconnect the negative battery terminal. This step is essential for ensuring that there is no power to the vehicle during the repair process, reducing the risk of unexpected electrical issues.

Use Proper Tools and Equipment: Utilize tools and equipment specifically designed for automotive repairs. Using incorrect or makeshift tools can lead to injuries and damage to the vehicle. Additionally, always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, eye protection, and clothing that covers your arms and legs to avoid any direct contact with fuel or harmful fluids.

Handle Fuel Lines with Care: When removing the fuel lines, exercise extreme caution. Do not kink, bend, or damage the lines unnecessarily. Fuel lines are critical components, and any damage to them can lead to fuel leaks, which are hazardous.

Proper Disposal of Old Fuel and Fluids: Have a plan for properly disposing of any old fuel, engine oil, or other fluids that you may drain during the process. These substances should not be poured down drains or into the environment. Check with your local waste management guidelines for the correct disposal methods.

Seek Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with any part of the process, do not hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. They have the training and experience to handle these tasks safely and effectively.

Remember, safety should never be compromised when working on your vehicle. Taking the necessary precautions will help ensure a successful and accident-free experience.

Removing the fuel tank

To remove the fuel tank from a 2007 Ford Expedition, follow these steps:

Firstly, position your vehicle securely. Place the truck on ramps, with both left tires on the ramps. This will give you the clearance needed to access the underside of the vehicle.

Next, remove the skid plate from under the tank. This is usually made of fiberglass and bolts to the retaining straps. Be careful not to rub against the fiberglass any more than necessary, as it can cause irritation.

Now, remove the clamp on the filler tube and then remove the tube itself. There are two other hoses connected to this end of the tank, which can be released by pressing the hose towards the tank, pushing a button, and then pulling back.

At this point, you should disconnect the two evap lines at the front of the tank. One of these lines has a 90-degree elbow on top of a black box, so be mindful of the limited clearance. Both of these lines can be disconnected by pushing them in, pushing a button, and then pulling back.

Additionally, if your vehicle is equipped with a fuel tank skid plate, it should be removed at this stage.

Now, disconnect the single fuel line on the fuel filter. Then, disconnect the vapor hose and the fuel hose(s) forward of the fuel tank.

Position a suitable jack under the fuel tank, but do not support the tank directly beneath the fuel pump mounting area, as this can cause damage to the fuel pump assembly.

Remove the fuel tank front and rear support straps and lower the front of the fuel tank by approximately 25 mm (1 inch).

Remove the rear LH and RH sway bar bracket nuts and lower the sway bar.

Now, disconnect the vent hose from the fuel tank vent spout by loosening the clamp. Also, disconnect the fuel pump electrical connector.

Finally, carefully remove the fuel tank from the vehicle.

It is important to note that highly flammable mixtures are always present when working with fuel systems. Therefore, ensure there is no smoking, open flames, or lighted tobacco during this process to prevent the risk of injury or fire.

Disconnecting the fuel pump

Safety Precautions:

Before beginning any work on the fuel system, it is crucial to observe critical safety measures. Firstly, ensure that you do not smoke or carry any lighted tobacco or open flames near the vehicle. The fuel system contains highly flammable mixtures that can easily ignite, posing a risk of personal injury and fire. Additionally, always relieve the fuel system pressure and drain the fuel tank before disconnecting any fuel lines or components. This step is essential to prevent accidental fuel spraying, which could lead to hazardous situations.

• Position the vehicle: Place the truck on ramps, specifically both left tires, to gain the necessary clearance to access the undercarriage. This maneuver may require some maneuvering, such as putting the truck in 4L to navigate the ramps without pushing or climbing them.
• Remove the skid plate: Under the fuel tank, you'll find a skid plate made of fiberglass. Remove this by unscrewing the bolts that secure it to the retaining straps. Be cautious when handling the fiberglass to avoid any irritation or itching.
• Disconnect the filler tube: Locate the clamp on the filler tube and remove it. There will be two additional hoses connected to the end of the tank that can be quickly released by pressing the hose towards the tank, pushing the button, and pulling back.
• Disconnect the evap lines: At the front of the tank, disconnect the two evap lines. One of them might have a 90-degree elbow on top of a black box, requiring extra care due to limited clearance. These lines can also be quickly disconnected by pushing them in, pushing the button, and pulling back.
• Disconnect the fuel line: Move on to the single fuel line connected to the fuel filter and carefully disconnect it.
• Lower the fuel tank: Following the disconnection of the necessary hoses and lines, you can now lower the fuel tank. Ensure you follow the correct procedure for removing the fuel tank, as specific steps may vary based on your vehicle's make and model.
• Disconnect the fuel pump electrical connector: With the fuel tank lowered or removed, you will have access to the fuel pump. Disconnect the electrical connector to the fuel pump, being mindful of the fuel vent hose's critical role in the fuel system operation.
• Remove the fuel pump: Finally, with the electrical connector disconnected, you can now remove the fuel pump itself. This process may require the use of a special tool to unlock the fuel pump lock ring, as per Ford's design.

Please note that these steps are based on forum discussions and may not cover all the nuances of your specific vehicle. Always refer to official service manuals or seek professional guidance if you are unsure about any steps or safety precautions.

Disconnecting the hoses

To begin, place the truck on ramps, with both left tires positioned securely. This step can be challenging, requiring the vehicle to be put in 4L to navigate the ramps effectively. Once the truck is in place, the next step is to remove the skid plate from under the tank. This skid plate is typically made of fiberglass and is attached to the retaining straps. After removing the skid plate, carefully remove the clamp on the filler tube and proceed to detach the tube itself. At this end of the tank, you will find two additional hoses that can be quickly released by pressing the hose towards the tank, pushing the button, and pulling back.

In the next step, you will need to disconnect the two evap lines located at the front of the tank. One of these lines has a 90-degree elbow on top of a black box, so be mindful of the limited clearance. To disconnect these lines, simply push them in, press the button, and pull them back. Additionally, there is a single fuel line connected to the fuel filter that needs to be disconnected.

It is worth noting that the 5.4L 4V engine in the 2007 Ford Expedition is equipped with a return-type fuel system. Therefore, you will need to disconnect the vapor hose and the fuel hose(s) forward of the fuel tank. Pay close attention to the location of the fuel vent hose, as it is critical to the fuel system's operation. Make sure to note the routing of the fuel vent hose before proceeding.

Replacing the fuel filter

To replace the fuel filter on a 2007 Ford Expedition, follow these steps:

Firstly, locate the fuel filter. On the 2007 model, it is located on the driver's side, attached by a bracket to the front of the fuel tank, right under the driver's seat. Remove the small plastic cover on the lower side to access the fuel filter.

Now, to remove the old fuel filter. Wear safety goggles for protection and ensure there are no open flames or smoking around. The spring lock couplings will require a special tool to disconnect. Be careful when removing the clips, especially the primary retaining clips, as they can break. The centre of the clip pulls out, then push the outer part of the clip in and pull.

Once the old filter is removed, position the new fuel filter into the clamp, ensuring the arrow imprinted on the side is pointing in the correct direction, towards the fuel line travelling to the engine. Tighten the clamp with a screwdriver.

Next, push both fuel lines straight onto the fuel filter ports until they lock in place. The lines should be pushed firmly onto the ports, and the plastic clips will lock inside the fuel lines. Pull outward on the lines to ensure they are secured.

Finally, turn the ignition to the accessory position for about five seconds, then back off, and repeat this three times before cranking the engine. Check the new fuel filter for any signs of gas leaking around the fuel lines. Allow the engine to run for about 30 seconds.

Remember to dispose of the used fuel and filter responsibly, according to local laws.

Frequently asked questions