[BMFer1]

Hi, Keely111.

First off, what do you mean exactly by failure to maintain idle? Rough idle, high idle speed, low or no idle speed, sporadic, or what? Be more specific and I can hopefully help you there.

There is no canister to take apart to change the fuel filter. All you need is a flathead screwdriver. The filter is located on the inside of the passenger side fuel rail beside the muffler. Remove both fuel lines by first sliding out the plastic clips with the screwdriver, then just pulling them off. Then, loosen the large hose clamp & slide the filter out the front of the housing. Installation is the reverse. Make sure to use a Motorcraft OEM filter for best results (Motorcraft #FG-800A, about $12.00). I doubt the fuel filter is causing an idle problem, but change it anyway if you don't have a clue how old it is.

1998 & later Crown Vic's do not have plugwires. There are 8 individual coils that sit directly on each plug. Use a 7mm socket to remove the coils to access the plugs (you may need a 7mm wrench on #7 plug if the OE bracket is still in the way.) USE MOTORCRAFT OEM double platinum plugs. Anything else will not last as long-trust me. When you install them, apply a SMALL amount of antisieze compound to prevent them from bonding to the aluminum heads. Make sure they are properly gapped (approximately .054 thousanths.)

Hope this helps