How to Replace a Fuel Filter on a 2005 Ford Explorer
- 1). Disconnect the hairpin or push connect clip from the fuel line. The clip is used as a back-up system to ensure the fuel line does not become dislodged (which would result in a fuel spill). For hairpin clips, twist, push and pull the fitting until it freely moves; remove the clip by bending the shipping tab downward and spreading the legs of the clip so they are even with the holes. Using your fingers, grasp the triangular portion of the clip (opposite the legs) and pull the clip out (the legs will slide through the holes). For push connect clips, clean the fitting to remove dirt and twist the clip until it moves freely. Remove the push connect safety clamp by leveraging it away from the fuel line until it is free.
- 2). Disengage the fuel spring lock couplings (requires the fuel line disconnect tool). Test the fuel line disconnect tool to ensure it matches the size of the fuel line by wrapping the tool around the fuel line (the correct size will slip around the fuel line with minimal space). Align the disconnect tool's flat (male) portion toward the fuel filter. Slide the fuel line disconnect tool into the fuel filter spring lock coupling (slide it on the fuel line and it will enter the coupling). Press the tool into the coupling to disengage the springs.
- 3). Remove the fuel line by twisting and pulling it away from the fuel filter (depending on the space available, you may need to pull the fuel filter away from the line). If a spring lock is used, the tool will lift the springs retaining the fuel line and allow the line to be disengaged. If no spring lock is used, the fuel line should freely pull away.
- 4). Block the fuel line with a pencil or a golf tee. Insert the end of the pencil or golf tee into the exposed fuel line to avoid spilling fuel.
- 5). Remove the fuel line from the other side of the fuel filter and plug the fuel line. Without tipping the fuel filter (fuel will spill), remove the fuel filter and set it aside for later disposal.
- 6). Install the new fuel filter by aligning the flow arrows with the direction of fuel flow. Install the fuel filter by reversing the process used to disconnect the fuel filter.
