Sylvie Willis
Disconnecting the fuel lines of a 1990 Ford can be a challenging task. There are various tools available for this purpose, such as Ford Tool T90T-9550-B or C, or a pair of narrow 6-inch slip-jaw pliers. It is important to ensure that the retaining clip, fitting end, and connector are all inspected and that the O-rings are replaced if necessary. Some people have also used a plastic quick disconnect kit, a metal scissor tool, or a circular coupling disconnect tool to remove the fuel lines. In some cases, the tools may not work effectively, and a small pick tool or elbow grease may be required to forcibly separate the coupling.
Removing fuel lines on a 1990 Ford
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Specialised tools | Ford Tool T90T-9550-B or C or equivalent |
| Other tools | Narrow 6-inch slip-jaw pliers with a jaw width of 0.2 in (5mm) or less |
| Other methods | Push the fuel line into the connector and twist the connector side to side to free the teeth inside |
| Use a pick tool to separate the coupling and remove the bail | |
| Use a metal scissor tool to compress the springs and unlock the fuel line | |
| Use a circular coupling disconnect tool | |
| Use a silver scissor tool | |
| Use plastic fuel tools (grey and blue) |
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What You'll Learn
Using a disconnect tool
Disconnect tools are available from Ford and other manufacturers for removing the retaining clips. The tool is inserted and pushed in as far as possible, and then twisted back and forth to free the teeth inside. It is then pulled out.
If the special clip tool is not available, a pair of narrow 6-inch slip-jaw pliers can be used. The jaws of the pliers must be aligned with the openings of the fitting case, and the retaining clip compressed to release the fitting. Both sides of the clip must be compressed at the same time.
A neat trick is to use a short piece of plastic tube, cut down the middle, which is then placed around the gas line. The plastic tube is then slid inside the connection, and the connection is pushed towards the tube. With one motion, the connection and tube can be slid off the fitting.
Another method is to use a screwdriver to push down on the centre of the green tab, then push the gas line forward and pull it backward. The key is to continue holding down the tab until the line comes off.
If the fingers are not free of the catch ring before the tool is inserted, they may be bent semipermanently locking the coupling together. In this case, a small pick tool can be inserted between the filter nipple and the coupling, and the bail can be removed from the coupling.
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Removing the safety clip
To remove the safety clip from the fuel lines of a 1990 Ford, you will need to use a special tool. Ford Tool T90T-9550-B or C or an equivalent will work. This type of removal tool has a hinged centre section that allows you to fit it around the fuel line.
Firstly, clean all dirt and grease from the fitting. Then, spread the two clip legs about 1/8 inch (3mm) each to disengage from the fitting and pull the clip outward from the fitting. Use finger pressure only; do not use any tools.
Next, grasp the fitting and hose assembly and pull away from the steel line. Twist the fitting and hose assembly slightly while pulling if the assembly sticks.
Now, push down on the safety clip to clear the fangs, then pop off the clip. The clamp, in its current position, gets pushed down toward the end of the hard fuel line, over the part that is slightly larger in circumference, about 1/2 inch.
Finally, inspect the hairpin clip for damage, replacing the clip if necessary. Reinstall the clip in position on the fitting.
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Using pliers
While removing the fuel lines on a 1990 Ford, you may need to remove the safety clip from the fuel lines. This clip is attached to a small wire that prevents it from getting lost. A special tool is available from Ford and other manufacturers for removing the retaining clips. However, if you do not have access to this tool, you can use a pair of pliers.
Narrow slip-jaw pliers can be used to remove the retaining clip. Ensure that you use narrow 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. Compress the part of the retaining clip that engages the case. Both sides of the clip must be compressed simultaneously to disengage it. Once the clip is compressed, the fitting will be released, and you can pull it from the connector.
If you do not have narrow slip-jaw pliers, you can use a standard pair of pliers with a creative approach. One method is to cut a white BiC pen sleeve into a 1/2”-3/4” long cylinder, slice it open, slip it over the line, and use the pliers to press it into the fitting. The pen sleeve will snugly fit into the fitting, and you can then spread open the wound coil spring inside to lift it over the male fitting end.
Another option 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 action will push apart the spring inside the connector.
It is important to note that using pliers without the proper tools may not always be effective and could potentially damage your vehicle. It is recommended to use the correct tools to avoid any issues.
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Using a pick tool
If you are removing the fuel lines on a 1990 Ford and are struggling to disconnect the fuel lines, there are a few methods you can try. Firstly, it is important to note that there are special tools available for this purpose, such as Ford Tool T90T-9550-B or C or its equivalent. These tools are designed to remove the retaining clips. If you do not have access to these tools, you can try the following methods using a pick tool:
Method 1:
- Clean all dirt and grease from the fitting.
- Spread the two clip legs about 1/8 inch (3mm) each to disengage them from the fitting.
- Use a small pick tool to carefully remove the bail clip. This may require some force, but be careful not to damage the surrounding components.
- Once the clip is removed, you can pull the fuel line away from the connector.
Method 2:
- Use a pocket knife or screwdriver to remove the hairpin clip that secures the fuel line.
- If the fuel filter is still difficult to remove, you may need to use a pick set to try and pry it apart.
- Alternatively, you can try cutting the fuel filter with bolt cutters and then use the pick tool to separate the components.
It is important to exercise caution when performing any fuel line maintenance, as improper techniques can lead to damage or injury. Always refer to a professional mechanic if you are unsure about any procedures.
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Using a scissor tool
Removing fuel lines on a 1990 Ford with a scissor tool is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
First, ensure you have the correct scissor tool for the job. The ABN Fuel Line Disconnect Scissor Tool is a popular choice, designed for both 5/16” and 3/8” fuel lines, compatible with 1990 and newer Ford vehicles. It's an all-metal tool built for strength and durability. Check the size of your fuel pump to ensure the correct fitment.
Next, locate the fuel line you need to remove. You may need to relieve the fuel pressure by disconnecting the line at the fuel filter or unbolting the rail. Position the scissor tool correctly; it should fit the fitting, not the fuel line. Listen for a slight "click," indicating that the tool has released the fuel line locking mechanism.
Now, you can easily pull off the filter. This process may require some force, but with the correct tool, it should come off without much trouble. If you encounter resistance, ensure that any fuel deposits are cleaned, as these can make separation difficult.
If you're working in a tight space, you may find that the handle of the scissor tool is too short, limiting your reach. In this case, you may need to consider an alternative tool or modify your scissor tool to suit your needs.
Finally, with the fuel line disconnected, you can proceed with any necessary maintenance or repairs. Remember to clean the connections and blow them out with compressed air to prevent varnish build-up, which can glue the connections together.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a few methods you can try to remove the fuel lines from your 1990 Ford. Firstly, you can try using a special tool to remove the retaining clips, such as Ford Tool T90T-9550-B or C, or an equivalent tool. If you don't have access to this tool, you can try using a pair of narrow 6-inch slip-jaw pliers to compress the retaining clip and release the fitting. Alternatively, you can try using a plastic quick disconnect kit or a metal scissors tool to disconnect the fuel lines. If your fuel line is stiff, you may need to use some elbow grease to get it off.
If your disconnect tool breaks, you can try using a small pick tool to separate the coupling. This will damage the bail, so you will need to bend it back into shape and reinstall it after removing the filter. You can also try using a different type of disconnect tool, such as a circular coupling disconnect tool or a metal scissors tool with four different sizes.
If you're having trouble removing the fuel lines from the pump, try using a disconnect tool that collapses the "fingers" inside the line. You can also try spraying some lube where the tool goes in to make it easier to remove the lines.
If you're having trouble removing the retaining clip, make sure that the fingers are free of the catch ring before inserting the tool. If the fingers are bent, they may be semipermanently locking the coupling together. In this case, you can try to forcibly separate the coupling, but this will damage the bail.
