How to Replace Fuel Filter 1997 Tuarus

[Jerseycity]

I have a 1997 Ford Taurus. I need to replace the fuel filter. Any help to indicate where this is located and how to get rid of the pressure prior to opening the filter. Does it need special tool to replace the filter.

Any help shall be highly appreciated.

Thanks,

[65comet]

Passenger side underneath the car, just in front of the rear wheel is the location. On the engine where the fuel line connects to the fuel rail there is a schrader valve, (looks like a tire valve with a cap on it) that you can release the fuel pressure. If it has been sitting for a while, the pressure might have bled off on its own. Don't confuse it with a air conditioner valve. Back to the filter. The lines coming in and out have a small plastic "U" clip holding them on. It is easier to get them off if you put some pressure pushing the fittings to the filter while pulling the clips off. Sometimes it is easier with pliers gripping and pulling the clips, and sometimes it is better with a screwdriver prying the clip off. It depends on how much room you have between the filter and the frame. There is basically a large hose clamp that holds the filter in place. A standard screwdriver or 5/16 socket will loosen that. There should be two new clips with the new filter, so don't worry about the old clips if they break. Put in the new filter. Put the lines on. Slide in the new clips. Turn the key to the on/run position, don't crank it over. The fuel pump should have pressurized the system. Look for leaks. If none, turn off the key and give each line a little pull to make sure the clips have the lines locked on. If ok at that point, start the car and check for leaks again.

[Jerseycity]

Originally Posted by Jerseycity

I have a 1997 Ford Taurus. I need to replace the fuel filter. Any help to indicate where this is located and how to get rid of the pressure prior to opening the filter. Does it need special tool to replace the filter.

Any help shall be highly appreciated.

Thanks,

Thank you 65Comet I have changed the filter without much of a problem. Your detail explanation was very helpful. I couldn't locate the pressure release valve and had fuel spill over me, but the changing wasn't a problem at all.

Thanks again, Cheers!