Replacing 97 Lincoln Continental Fuel Filler Door: A Step-By-Step Guide

If the fuel filler door on your 1997 Lincoln Continental is damaged, you may need to replace it. This can be done by unscrewing the three screws attaching the fuel filler neck to the door, disconnecting the thin metal line and rubber hose, and then sliding the neck out of the tank. You can then install the new fuel filler neck by reversing these steps. It is important to note that you may not need to drop the gas tank to replace the fuel filler neck. Additionally, modern gas is highly carcinogenic, so it is recommended to get your tank cleaned if you do need to drop it. If your fuel filler door is functional but the release button is not working, you may need to check fuse number 8, which is for the fuel filler door release switch. You can also try using a putty knife to open the door or lubricating the mechanism with a light oil, such as WD40.

Unscrew the three screws attaching the fuel filler neck to the fuel door

To replace the fuel filler door on a 97 Lincoln Continental, you'll need to access the fuel filler neck. This is attached to the fuel door by three screws. To remove the fuel filler neck, you'll need to:

Step 1: Open the fuel door

First, open the fuel door to expose the fuel filler neck. This will allow you to access the screws attaching the neck to the fuel door.

Step 2: Locate the screws

There should be three screws attaching the fuel filler neck to the fuel door. These screws are usually visible once the fuel door is opened. Make sure you have the correct tools to unscrew them.

Step 3: Unscrew the screws

Using the appropriate tool, carefully unscrew each of the three screws. Be gentle to avoid stripping the screws or damaging the surrounding components. Place the screws in a safe place so you can find them later.

Step 4: Check the connection

Once the screws are removed, the fuel filler neck should be released from its connection to the fuel door. Be careful not to force anything if it seems stuck, as there may be other components holding it in place. Inspect the area for any other attachments or obstructions.

Step 5: Disconnect the rubber hose

After confirming that the fuel filler neck is free, you can disconnect the rubber hose that runs along the neck. This hose is usually attached with a clamp, so you'll need to loosen the clamp first. Be gentle when pulling on the hose to avoid damaging it or any surrounding components.

Step 6: Slide out the fuel filler neck

With the hose disconnected, you can now slide out the fuel filler neck. It should come out easily, but if you encounter any resistance, double-check that all attachments have been released. Once removed, set the fuel filler neck aside and proceed with installing the replacement neck or performing any other necessary maintenance.

Remember to take all necessary safety precautions when working on your vehicle, and refer to a qualified mechanic or a repair manual for detailed instructions on replacing the fuel filler door or neck.

Disconnect the thin metal line and rubber hose

To disconnect the thin metal line and rubber hose from your 1997 Lincoln Continental fuel filler neck, you will first need to open the fuel door. You will then need to unscrew the three screws that you see when you open the fuel door. This will release the connection of the filler neck.

Once you have unscrewed these screws, you will need to locate the thin metal line that runs along the actual fuel filler neck and the rubber hose that is connected to it. This is where you will need to disconnect the thin metal line and rubber hose from the filler neck. Be careful when disconnecting these components, as you will not want to cause any damage to the surrounding parts.

It is important to note that you may need to use some tools to disconnect the thin metal line and rubber hose safely. You may also want to refer to a repair manual or seek advice from a professional if you are unsure about any part of the process.

After you have successfully disconnected the thin metal line and rubber hose from the filler neck, you can proceed with the rest of the replacement process. As one source notes, the installation of the new filler neck is just the reverse of the removal process.

Slide the filler neck out of the tank

To slide the filler neck out of the tank of your 1997 Lincoln Continental, first open the fuel door. You will see three screws; unscrew them to release the connection of the filler neck. Take note of the thin medal line that runs along the actual fuel filler neck and the rubber hose that connects to it. Disconnect the rubber hose. The rest of the neck will slide out of the tank.

You do not have to drop your gas tank to change the fuel filler neck in a Lincoln Continental.

Check fuse number 8 for the fuel filler door release switch

If the button to release the gas tank door on your 1997 Lincoln Continental is not working, you should check fuse number 8. This is located on the second row from the top and is the third fuse from the left. It is a 20A fuse and is for the fuel filler door release switch as well as the trunk lid relay.

If the remote release is inoperative, open the trunk and pull the override release handle located inside the trunk on the passenger side to open the fuel filler door. This information can be found on page 78 of the owner's manual.

If the fuel filler inlet did not close properly, a "Check Fuel Fill Inlet" message may appear on the instrument cluster. To fix this, you will need to:

• Safely pull off the road.
• Put the vehicle in position P and switch the ignition off.
• Open the fuel filler door and remove any visible debris from the fuel fill opening.
• Insert the fuel fill nozzle or the fuel fill funnel provided with your vehicle several times to allow the inlet to close properly. This will dislodge any debris preventing the inlet from sealing.

It may take several driving cycles for the message to turn off. A driving cycle consists of an engine start-up (after four or more hours with the engine off) followed by city or highway driving.

Use a putty knife to open the fuel door

To open the fuel filler door of a 97 Lincoln Continental, you can use a putty knife. This method is useful when the button on the door or the release in the trunk does not work.

• Pull the release in the trunk. This will slightly open the fuel filler door, creating a small gap for you to work with.
• Insert the putty knife into the gap behind the door.
• Gently pry the door open with the putty knife. Be careful not to apply too much force, as you do not want to damage the door or the surrounding area.

It is important to note that this method may not be the most convenient or ideal way to open the fuel filler door. If you find yourself frequently resorting to using a putty knife, you may want to consider applying some lubricant to the mechanism or consulting a mechanic for a more permanent solution.

Additionally, if the fuel filler door button and the trunk release button are both inoperable, you may need to check the fuses. For the 2000 Lincoln Continental, for example, fuse number 8 controls the fuel filler door release switch and the trunk lid relay. Checking the appropriate fuse for your 97 model may help you identify and resolve any issues with the buttons.

Frequently asked questions