97 Grand Marquis questions minor problems

[Blue)(Fusion]

I'm almost sure the '97 fuel filters are mounted in the same fashion as my '00. I just checked and they look different in size, but same way to disconnect. The filter should have two plastic clips on both ends holding the fuel lines in place. If your new filter did not come with new clips, you can try to reuse your old ones, but you can always pick up a pack of them for cheap at the store. They may even have extra on hand for free. My Wix filter came with them.

Before replacing the filter, you want to purge the system of any pressure. I did this by simply pulling the fuel pump fuse in the engine compartment, then turning it over a few times with the starter which will release the pressure through the injectors. Alternatively, you can smack the fuel shutoff valve on the driver side wall of your trunk until the red button pops out. To re-engage afterwards, just press the button back in.

To replace the filter, remove the metal band holding it in place. A flathead screwdriver should be all you need for this step to unscrew it. Remove the plastic clip from the rear end of the filter, followed by the front. You should only need a little bit of force from the screwdriver to pry them off. Remove the filter, replace with the new one and be sure to put it back in the same direction as the old one. Reapply the fuel lines and snap the clips back in place. Ensure they are snug. Then tighten the metal strap again with the screwdriver and you're done. Took me about 15 minutes the first time I did it in a parking lot. 10 of which was spent trying to get the screw to thread back into the band to tighten it back down.

When you're all done and the fuse or shut off valve are back in/set, cycle the key to the ON position several times. This will prime the fuel pressure again. Starting may still take a few extra cranks while it purges air from the lines.

Oh, and even though you depressurize the system, fuel will still be coming out of it, probably from both ends. Just try to catch it in a can if you are able to so it doesn't get all over the place.

P.S. looking at your signature, are you a pilot by chance?

[pendemic]

i havent been able to lately its been either raining or wet up here in oregon thats all it does and i live in apartments so that makes it even worse, but im gonna take your idea and go down the street to the parking lot of the store and do it.

no not a pilot lol.

[pendemic]

any idea of what can fix the issue with my door handle coming loose(the one used to close the door) one screw came out and i tried to put it back in but theres some plastic thing behind it that looks all cracked and crumbled

[Blue)(Fusion]

Hmm, I haven't had my door apart in a while but IIRC, the screw threads into that black plastic piece. You might have to actually go to a junkyard to get those plastic pieces from another car or the dealer might have them. I can't say for certain if they even changed them in the latest models so you might have a good chance of getting them.

Infact come to think about it, I had to find a bigger (thicker) screw to put in one of those holes because the original one kept falling out. You might want to try that. Mine has been stable and tight since.

[pendemic]

didnt get the chance to get the fuel filter replaced today, might have to tomorrow while its still nice out. its getting to the point now where i dont want to drive cause i have to wait forever for the car to actually get gas to the engine, so i have to chug along going 25mph going up a hill.

yea that handle is annoying now, i got longer ones that i used in the other door so im gonna try those and see.