Fuel Filter Replacement on '97 Ranger

[1997Ranger]

I've got 108k miles and I think it's time to change the fuel filter.

Can anyone give me tips on how to do it? I took a look under the car at the filter and I'm not sure what kind of tool I'll need (if any) to remove it...

I've done a GM recently and all I needed was a quick disconnect fuel line tool which inserts inbetween the fuel filter and the line and spreads apart the connector.

Is ford similar?? If anyone has any idea what size/type of tool I'll need to get this job done, please let me know. Thanks!

 

[Tbars4]

...yes it's similar...i would highly suggest getting a hayne's or chilton's book as a must have when ever you buy a vehicle...there are so many maintenance pic's in them...they are about 15-20 dollars a book and are full of info ...they do have a full description of how to on maintenance...if you need some more help, we'll be here...i hope this helps...

 

[1997Ranger]

...yes it's similar...i would highly suggest getting a hayne's or chilton's book as a must have when ever you buy a vehicle...there are so many maintenance pic's in them...they are about 15-20 dollars a book and are full of info ...they do have a full description of how to on maintenance...if you need some more help, we'll be here...i hope this helps...

Hey, thanks for the info! Do you know which tool I would need? They sell tools for 3/8", etc. So can I just use my GM tool or is it different? Only reason I ask is I thought the GM style had a little ring around the fuel filter line (kinda looks like a welded on washer) and I thought this was what held the quick disconnect on..

On the ford one it is just a straight tube (as far as the lines coming out of the fuel filter).

I did order the haynes but it may take a while to arrive. So any info I can get on which tool to buy, would be helpful. I've already got the filter in hand and just trying to figure out what kind of tool i'll need to disconnect the filter, before I start the job...

 

[Tbars4]

...i myself just use a little screwdriver to do mine and wear goggles ...if you look at the pieces that cam with the new filter you will see a horse shoe type clip...that goes into the other piece just to retain it in place..i take the screwdriver under the flat spot on the horseshoe piece and just pry it up...after doing this a few times you learn how to not damage the clips...i do suggest installing the new clips that came with the filter....i hope this helps you...

 

[1997Ranger]

...i myself just use a little screwdriver to do mine and wear goggles ...if you look at the pieces that cam with the new filter you will see a horse shoe type clip...that goes into the other piece just to retain it in place..i take the screwdriver under the flat spot on the horseshoe piece and just pry it up...after doing this a few times you learn how to not damage the clips...i do suggest installing the new clips that came with the filter....i hope this helps you...

thanks for the info. well i'll try using a screwdriver then.

is this a standard size screwdriver, or smaller like closer in size to a jewler's or mini screw driver?

 

[Tbars4]

...smaller is better, get under pull and a little wiggle while pulling...

 

[DeRocha]

Take a peek at the Fuel Filter removal thread for lots of info and pics.

 

[1997Ranger]

Take a peek at the Fuel Filter removal thread for lots of info and pics.

okay, thanks. that's good info. I think the gm tool might work .. the one I have is also plastic. seems like it could be a little harder just using a screwdriver, no?? maybe if you had 2 of them to work opposites sides of the fuel line it might work better?

 

[Tbars4]

...derocha, your the man...i just added that to my tech sheets..