Replacing 1995 F150 Fuel Filter: Step-By-Step Guide

Replacing the fuel filter in a 1995 Ford F-150 is a simple task that can be performed by a novice truck owner or tackled by a local mechanic. It is important basic maintenance, as a dirty filter can wreak havoc on injectors, which will force the vehicle to work harder than usual. Before starting, it is important to note that you should never perform this task with a hot engine, and you should always use eye protection and refrain from smoking while performing maintenance on a fuel system.

Relieve the pressure from the fuel system

To relieve the pressure from the fuel system of a 1995 F150, start by removing the fuse cover located under the hood on the driver's side. Then, trip the inertia fuel reset switch, which should have a red rubber top. This is one of the few maintenance routines you should perform with your engine running. Disable the switch by tapping it in the middle with the end of a rubber mallet. You will know you have been successful when the motor gives out.

Alternatively, you can start by disconnecting the splash shield and positioning it aside. Then, disconnect the electrical connector. Start the engine and allow it to idle until it stalls. After the engine stalls, crank the engine for about 5 seconds to make sure the fuel rail pressure has been released. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.

Another method is to locate the fuel pump relay and pull it. The pump will die. Then, start the engine and it will die. Crank the engine over for about 20 seconds to ensure the pressure is relieved.

Finally, a different approach is to locate the inertia fuel shut-off switch, which is under the dash on the driver's side, on the firewall, to the left of the brake pedal or behind the kick panel. Start the truck and toggle the red button up with a screwdriver. If there is no button, pull off the electrical connection. The gas pressure will be removed as the engine sucks up what is left in the fuel line, and the truck will stall. Then, crank the engine some more to be sure.

Remove the metal retaining clip

To remove the metal retaining clip, you will need to have relieved the pressure from the fuel system and located the fuel filter. Once you have done this, you can begin the process of removing the metal retaining clip.

Firstly, unhook the metal retaining clip. This will require a small amount of force, but be careful not to break the clip. You can use a flat-head screwdriver to help with this step. Next, position the line compression removal tool at the front end of the filter. You can purchase a line compression removal tool at most auto parts stores.

Now, apply a small amount of pressure and slide the line compression removal tool into the line fitting. You should only need to apply a small amount of pressure, and the tool should slide in easily. Once the tool is in place, pull the line away from the filter. At this point, fuel will start to drain out, so be prepared with towels to catch the spillage.

Finally, repeat this process at the rear of the filter. Remember to apply as little pressure as possible to avoid damaging any components. Once both ends of the line fitting have been removed, use your flat-head screwdriver to fully disconnect the dirty filter.

It is important to note that you should only perform this task with a cold engine. Always wear eye protection and do not smoke while performing maintenance on a fuel system.

Disconnect the fuel filter

Disconnecting the fuel filter from your 1995 F150 is a relatively simple task, but it requires some careful preparation. Before you start, it's important to prioritise safety. Ensure the engine is cold, always wear eye protection, and never smoke while performing maintenance on a fuel system.

First, relieve the pressure from the fuel system. Start by removing the fuse cover located under the hood on the driver's side. Then, trip the inertia fuel reset switch, which should have a red rubber top. You can disable the switch by tapping it in the middle with the end of a rubber mallet. You will know you have been successful when the motor gives out.

Next, locate the fuel filter. It's usually found just under the driver's side door. To disconnect the filter, you will need to unhook the metal retaining clip and then use a line compression removal tool. Position the tool so that it rests on the filter's front end, and apply a small amount of pressure, sliding it into the line fitting until it slides off. You may want to have some towels handy, as fuel tends to spill out during this step. Repeat this process at the rear of the filter, applying as little pressure as possible.

Once both ends of the line fitting have been removed, use a flat-blade screwdriver to fully disconnect the dirty filter. Be careful not to damage the retaining clip, as these are often sturdier than the ones provided with new filters.

Replace the old filter

Now that you've relieved the pressure from the fuel system and removed the fuse cover, it's time to physically replace the old fuel filter.

First, locate the fuel filter under the driver's side door. You will need to unhook the metal retaining clip and position the line compression removal tool at the front end of the filter. Apply a small amount of pressure and slide the tool into the line fitting until it slides off. Keep some towels handy, as fuel will likely gush out during this step. Repeat this process at the rear of the filter, applying as little pressure as possible. Once both ends of the line fitting have been removed, use a flat-blade screwdriver to disconnect the dirty filter.

Next, take your new filter and position it so that the flow arrow is pointing towards the front end of your F-150. Reconnect the front line and hook the retaining clip back into place. Repeat this process for the rear line.

Now, reset the inertia switch by clicking the red button once more. Cycle the ignition a few times and check for any leaks, keeping the engine running while you test out your new filter.

And that's it! You've successfully replaced your old fuel filter. Remember to always prioritise safety and follow the correct procedures to avoid any potential hazards.

Reset and test

Now that you have replaced the fuel filter, you can reset the inertia switch by clicking the red button once more. Before starting the engine, cycle the ignition a few times and check for any leaks. Remember to keep the engine running when testing out your new filter.

If you are unable to locate the inertia switch, refer to your owner's manual or look for the fuel pump relay. Pulling the fuel pump relay will cause the pump to die, depressurising the system.

If you are still unable to locate the switch, you can try to relieve the pressure by removing the fuse cover located under the hood on the driver's side. Trip the inertia fuel reset switch, which should have a red rubber top. Disable the switch by tapping it in the middle with the end of a rubber mallet. You will know you have been successful when the motor gives out.

Once the pressure has been relieved, it should be safe to remove the filter.

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