*raises hand* what's this "duck bill clip" that keeps coming up? Does it look like the clips on the outside that hold the lines to the filter?

 

I did notice on the filter I was changing that the generic tool my cousin had seemed too thick to go in all the way. I didn't have my cheapo plastic ones to try either. His tool broke in half so I used half the tool and a tiny screwdriver to release the other side. It came apart right away that way, but we did cut the filter ends off which made it easy.

Mine's an '87 with the duck bill clips. Just ask for the '87 filter, which handles the same pressure and flow.

 

It's the awesomely easy way they used to connect the lines. The fuel line end has four windows which the clip is inserted into, which keeps the fuel filter from coming off by engaging the same type of collar the newer filters have. You just pry the clip out, and the new filter comes with new ones although I've reused them with no problems too if needed.

 

Sounds way easier.