Rajan Wilcox
Removing a Ford fuel line clip can be a challenging task, especially with the risk of breaking the clip. While some sources suggest that the clips are not meant to be removed, there are tools available for this purpose, such as the Ford Tool T90T-9550-B or C. If the clip breaks, you may need to use needle-nose pliers to remove the remnants. To release the fuel line, you can push down on the safety clip to clear the fangs and then pop off the clip. Alternatively, you can compress the retaining clip to release the fitting, which can then be pulled from the connector.
How to remove Ford fuel line clips
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tool required | Ford Tool T90T-9550-B or C or equivalent |
| Steps to remove | 1. Lift up on the outer latch using your thumb and index finger on both sides, lifting the grooved part of the semi-circular clip. 2. Push down on the tab and the line should release. |
| Other methods | 1. Push down on the safety clip to clear the fangs, then pop off the clip. 2. Compress the retaining clip to release the fitting, then pull it from the connector. 3. Slide the tool back to unseat the garter spring on the fitting, then pull back on the fuel line to separate them. 4. Use a zip tie threaded through the fitting where the clip goes. |
| Notes | The clips are not supposed to be removed and no tool is required to remove the lines. |
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What You'll Learn
A tool is not required to remove the fuel lines
While it is recommended to use a specialised tool to remove Ford fuel lines, it is not always necessary. If you are careful, you can remove a Ford fuel line with a pocket screwdriver and some patience. Firstly, access the head of the clip on the side of the fuel line end housing. Then, place the tip of the screwdriver around the head of the clip and release it, before carefully pulling the fuel line away from the filter.
Another method is to take a screw clamp and cut off the screw part so that you are left with a small open-ended ring. You then slip the open-ended clamp down the fuel line to the connector and push it into the connector, which will push apart the spring inside.
If your fuel line is more than five years old, or if it hasn't been removed in a long time, it is recommended to purchase a fuel line removal tool. This is because the clips can become stubborn and difficult to remove, especially when corroded. If the clip breaks, you will need to buy a new fuel line as the clips are unavailable separately.
As an alternative to the specialised tool, you can use a pair of narrow 6-inch slip-jaw pliers with a jaw width of 0.2 inches (5mm) or less. 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.
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Use a zip tie to secure the fitting if the clip breaks
If the retaining clip breaks, you will need to remove the remnants of the old clip from the fuel fitting using pick tools and needle-nose pliers. This can be a challenging task. To avoid this, you can use a zip tie as a replacement for the clip. This is an inexpensive and secure solution.
To do this, thread a zip tie through the fitting where the clip goes. Use the largest zip tie that fits in the holes, as this will ensure that it does not pull out. The zip tie will perform the same function as the clip by making the inner diameter of the fitting too small for the fuel line to come over the flare. This is a versatile method that can be used on boats, personal watercraft, ATVs, lawnmowers, and small engines.
It is important to note that zip ties are not necessary for all engines. They are particularly useful for engines with a tendency to blow the pressure line off the muffler fitting. If you are running a pumped engine, zip ties may not be required. However, they can provide added insurance against potential leaks.
Using a zip tie to secure the fitting is a simple, cost-effective solution that can be easily implemented. It is a good option if you are unable to obtain a replacement clip or need a temporary fix.
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Compress the retaining clip to release the fitting
To remove the Ford fuel line clip, you don't need to remove the clip itself. Instead, follow these steps to compress the retaining clip and release the fitting:
First, locate the grooved part of the semi-circular clip. Place your thumb and index finger on both sides of the clip and lift up on the grooved part. This will help you access the inner components and apply pressure to the specific areas that need to be manipulated.
Next, look for the small tab that resembles a fingernail. Push down on this tab. You should feel a slight resistance, and by pressing it, you will initiate the release mechanism.
By performing these two steps, you will effectively compress the retaining clip and release the fitting. It is important to be gentle and deliberate in your actions to avoid any accidental breakage of the clip or damage to the surrounding components.
If you encounter any issues or difficulties during this process, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic or seek advice from online forums dedicated to automotive maintenance and repairs. They can provide additional insights or alternative methods if you encounter a stubborn or unique situation.
Remember to take the necessary safety precautions when working with fuel lines and always ensure your work area is well-ventilated.
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Push down on the safety clip to clear the fangs
To remove the Ford fuel line clip, you need to first lift the outer latch by placing your thumb and index finger on both sides and lifting the grooved part of the semi-circular clip. Then, push down on the tab that looks like a little fingernail, and the line should release.
The safety clips that come off first are easy to release on the end away from the filter. However, the end with the fangs that reach under the housing near the filter can be more challenging. To remove this, push down on the safety clip to clear the fangs, and then it will pop off.
The clamp, in its current position, can be pushed down toward the end of the hard fuel line, over the part that is slightly larger in circumference, about half an inch. This will clear the fangs from the end of the fuel line, and the clip will come off.
It may be helpful to push the line toward the pump or tank sending unit before pressing the tab to relieve any tension on the coupler. Practising on the under-hood clip first is recommended, as the tank clips have limited visibility and access.
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Use a removal tool to separate the fuel line and fitting
To separate the fuel line and fitting using a removal tool, you can start by accessing the head of the clip on the side of the fuel line end housing. Place the tip of the removal tool around the head of the clip. Then, push down on the safety clip to clear the fangs and release it. After that, carefully pull the fuel line away from the filter.
It is recommended to use a specialised tool for removing the retaining clips. Ford Tool T90T-9550-B or C or its equivalent can be used. These specialised tools are available from Ford and other manufacturers. If you do not have access to the specialised tool, you can use a pair of narrow 6-inch slip-jaw pliers with a jaw width of 0.2 inches (5mm) or less. 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.
Another method is to use a screw clamp. Cut off the screw part of the clamp, leaving you with a small open-ended ring. Slip this open-ended clamp down the fuel line to the connector and push it into the connector. This will push apart the spring inside the connector.
Alternatively, if your fuel line is more than five years old, or if it hasn't been removed in a long time, it is advisable to invest in a fuel line removal tool. This will help prevent any accidental damage to the clip, as the clips are usually unavailable separately from the line.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a specialised tool from Ford or other manufacturers to remove the retaining clip. If you do not have access to the tool, you can try to break the clip by pressing on the button. However, it is not recommended to remove the clips, and you do not need a tool to remove the lines.
Before pressing the tab, push the line towards the pump to relieve any tension on the coupler. You can also use a zip tie threaded through the fitting where the clip goes.
Push down on the safety clip first to clear the fangs, then pop off the clip.
First, remove the top fuel line from the filter. Then, remove the filter from the frame and push it under the frame to remove the lower fuel line.
