How to Remove the Fuel Filter From a Ford Ranger Pickup

The fuel filter on your Ford Ranger pickup truck helps to clean the fuel before it enters the engine. Temperature fluctuations can cause condensation or moisture to form on the inside of the tank, which in turn causes the interior of the tank to rust. To prevent damage to your engine, the filter captures this debris before it gets into the engine. After 30,000 to 60,000 miles, your filter will need to be changed.

Things You'll Need

• K-D 3321 Ford fuel line removal tool
• Safety glasses
• Shop rag

Instructions

1. Relieve the fuel pressure by depressing the Schrader valve on the passenger's side of the fuel rail on the engine. Place a rag over the top of the valve to prevent fuel from spraying everywhere.

2. Locate the fuel filter. Crawl under the Ford Ranger pickup just below the driver's side door and follow the fuel line until you reach the filter. It is tucked underneath the frame near the gas tank.

3. Remove the safety clip on one end of the fuel filter by squeezing the clip together and unhooking the small latch on the clip.

4. Place the 5/16-inch end of the fuel line removal tool over the end of the fuel line.

5. Slide the tool over the fuel line and push it into the fuel line and away from the filter. You will hear a "click." The fuel line is now disconnected.

6. Repeat steps 3, 4, and 5 for the other end of the filter.

7. Remove the fuel line from the filter.

8. Remove the fuel filter from the mounting bracket. It will slide right out of the bracket now that nothing is holding it in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear safety glasses when working on your Ford, and especially when working on the fuel system. Gasoline in your eyes can cause permanent damage.

References

• Ford Ranger, Bronco II Repair Manual 1983-1992; Alan Ahlstrand, Homer Eubanks, John H. Haynes; 1992