Ok I have an 04 f150 5.4 and I'm changin the fuel filter. I got the back connection undone but the front 1 has got me stumped. I removed the metal clip but I still can't get it. Its metal insted of plastic and there us noway to release it. Do I just need 2 pry I off or what. Thanks

 

Never mind I figured it out

 

what happened? incase that happens to me lol

 

How hard was it/long did the filter change take? I've never dealt with them and plan on changing mine on my 06 soon.

 

It takes longer to get set up under the truck than it takes to replace the filter. There are two different sized (one or the other) filters on these trucks (the tubes in/out on the filter). One is 3/8" and the other is 5/16", and not all parts stores are aware of this. After you determine which size you need (measure your old filter line/pipe diameter-you can use the fitting tool to do this), check online which stores have your size in stock and purchase. Under the truck only takes about 15 minutes. Remember the fuel lines are under pressure. Either wait overnight or depressurize the line or just have a tub of some sort to catch the fuel that comes out. WEAR SAFETY GOGGLES! Gas in the eyes is not a pleasant experience.

 

Changing a fuel filter is easy and it is something anybody can do. He's right, there are 2 filters, but you can figure out which one you need by your build date. I would recommend getting a set of air conditioning & fuel line disconnect tool set. A set with 6 sizes is maybe 8 or 9 bucks that can be bought from any parts store. Some guys depressurize their fuel system, I didn't. Go underneath the drivers side door and the filter will be somewhat hidden on the truck frame. Remove the metal clips that are on each each side of the filter and run the disconnect tool underneath the clips that hold the filter to the line. You'll feel when the filter frees up and remove it when you have both sides released. Simply take the new filter, make sure the arrow points towards the motor and press each end into the fuel lines until you feel/hear it click into place. That's all it takes and the job is done. Note: you might want to wear eye protection because there is a good chance gas is going to leak/ squirt during this change. Took me maybe 5 minutes start to finish.

 

You can depressurize the system by dis-connecting the electrical connector to the fuel pump. It's located behind a plastic cover on the outside of the frame under the drivers door. Dis-connect the top electrical connector and start the truck, let it run till it dies and the system is depressurized. Disconnect the negative battery terminal for safety and change the filter as mentioned above. Last thing you want is a fuel fire while your under the truck.

 

I know what you mean about the front metal fuel line being a pain in the *** to get off!!! I had the fuel line tool too and it still was hard as hell to work it off. Should have been a 10 minute fix but took me an hour messing with that front fuel line!!! To all who have changed their fuel filter I have a question, did anyone notice a difference in the fuel draining from the filter being dirty looking? Looked brownish from my filter, I guess it needed changed no? It has 38,000 on original filter....

 

My 99 ranger was a little different. they told me to crank the engine in five seconds spurts until the they added up to 25-30 seconds. Don't forget to also unscrew the gas cap after you've cranked it so that both ends of the line are depressurized

 

I just take the bath....