fuel filter replacement

[kmichael30]

Hello group I have a 2001 taurus with 72,000 miles on it and I went out and bought a fuel filter. My problem is how do i replace it i know that it is under the passanger side but how to replace it without breaking the clips on the hose. Not sure where to get them from if i break them. is there any fuel pressure i should worry about when i pull this off any ideas will help i'm a newbie

[Bob Gervais]

First you'll need to releive the fuel pressure. You can do this by removing the fuel pump fuse, which is located in a black box on the radiator support. Remove the fuse, then run the car until it dies.

Most new filters come with clips, but if yours did not you should have no problems. I usually use a screwdriver or needle nose pliers to pull the horseshoe shaped plastic clip out. If you don't damage it, they are reusable. If you do damage it, most stores carry them, as well as the dealer. It may not be a bad idea to have a few on hand just in case.

[kmichael30]

Thank you but one more question you say remove the fuel pump fuse and run it untill it dies what if the car has a full tank of gas? dumb question i know i'm a newbie

[Cajunblu]

Originally Posted by kmichael30

Thank you but one more question you say remove the fuel pump fuse and run it untill it dies what if the car has a full tank of gas? dumb question i know i'm a newbie

kMichael30: No such thing as a dumb question...LOL

By removeing the fuel pump fuse you are shutting down the fuel pump, and by running the engine til it stops you are draining the fuel left in the line....Edit today...you will not drain the whole tank, just what fuel is left in the line going to the carburater...

Hope this helps...

Robert

[kmichael30]

one last question i looked atg the fuse box and the owners manuel has 2 fuses that has fuel pump relay one of them is the little small clear fuse and the other is a black square fuse that has the ford emblem on it should i remove both of them or which one thanks group for all the help

[Bob Gervais]

Either one will do the same job, I usually remove the fuse though. No particular reason why.

[kmichael30]

Thanks guys for all of your help god bless

[LarryKL]

Allow the car to sit overnight is simple way to relieve the fuel pressure. As mentioned the clips pry off easily with small screwdriver, should also be new ones with new filter anyway.