Remove the Fuel Filter From a Ford Sport Trac
. The Sport Trac fuel filter has an in-line design that filters out particles and sediment that could clog fuel injectors.
Contents
Steps
- Disconnect the fuel pump motor fuse in the power distribution box behind the battery in the engine compartment. The number of the fuse is 23.
- Turn the engine over a few times to alleviate pressure in the fuel line.
- Locate the fuel filter on the driver's side of the truck, {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} (1.17 m) from the front of the truck and 1.5 feet (.5 m) in from the side.
- Remove the heat filter covering the fuel filter.
- Note the intake and return lines in the rear of the filter and an outlet fuel line leading to the engine. You will be removing these.
- Remove the retaining clips on the plastic fuel lines by squeezing the ends and sliding the clips toward the filter.
- Create space to work by gently prying apart the bracket holding the filter, then roll the filter out. Disconnect the outlet line going to the engine by sliding the disconnect tool over the filter where it connects to the fuel line. Slide the tool into the fuel line and disconnect the internal clips securing the line to the filter.
- You will hear and feel a click when the clips disconnect.
- Catch fuel coming out of the filter with a rag, or cap the end of the line with a pen or golf tee. The amount of fuel spilling from the fuel line will be less if you crank the engine after removing the fuel pump motor fuse. Have a pan in place under the fuel filter to catch fuel and prevent any gas from spilling on the ground.
- Disconnect the middle inlet on one side and the middle outlet on the other side using the small end of the tool for each side.
- Remove the old filter completely from the bracket.
- Examine the new filter and locate the arrow on the filter. Insert the filter into the filter bracket with the arrow pointing toward the engine.
- Slide the clips into the end of the fuel line openings. You will hear and feel a click when they are secure. Tug on the metal ends of the lines to be sure the fuel lines are secure and won't come loose.
- Refasten the fuel filter in the bracket.
- Go to the engine compartment and reinsert the fuel pump fuse back into the fuse box, in the same slot it was in before you removed it.
- Start your engine. There may be a short delay in ignition as fuel returns to the engine.
- Get out of the truck and check under the truck for leaks. If there are no leaks, drive the truck, then check for leaks again. If there are no leaks after a drive, your Ford Sport Trac filter has successfully been replaced.
Tips
- Disconnect tools are available at auto parts stores.
- Allow ample time to finish the job when learning how to remove the fuel filter from a Ford Sport Trac. The first time will take longer than subsequent jobs.
- Most public libraries have auto repair manuals with diagrams and detailed instructions. If the books can't be checked out, you can photocopy the pages you need.
- Some automobile companies require certain brands of auto parts be used in their products to prevent warranties from being voided. If you are working on an auto still under warranty, check the owner's manual to see if the manufacturer requires certain brands be used.
Warnings
- Park your vehicle in a well-ventilated area when working on the fuel system.
- Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.Never smoke when working on the fuel system of any vehicle.
- Prevent fuel from spraying into your face by cranking the engine a few times before you remove the filter. Remember to turn the engine over after you remove the fuel pump motor fuse.
Things You'll Need
- Disconnect tool, OEM Industrial part #25043
- Ford Sport Trac fuel filter
- Safety goggles
- Rag
