Need help removing a fuel filter from a 2005 Explorer Limited V6 4.0. See picture. I took apart everything except I could get the connector that requires a tool off. I tried for 5 hrs with the special metal 3/8 tool and even tried sharpie marker caps. Any ideas? Is there a different specific tool I should be using. Thanks everyone

I recently just replaced the suspension so I didn’t think replacing a fuel filter would be that difficult

Fuel filter 05 Explorer Limit 4.0

 

I have the AST 1018 set, the one I use most often is the AST 8013 so thats probably what you need.
You should be able to go to a auto parts store and buy them individually, heck they might be part of the tool loaner program. If you do buy it do not buy the store brand, I first bought the harbor freight ones but the metal is to thick to go into the connector, the AST ones are correctly made though.
Also you have to push the tool in harder then you think to get it to release.

 

Thanks Scott, this is a huge help. I appreciate the quick response. I talked to AST and I’ll order from Tillman Tools. I’ll let everyone know how it works out. Thanks again

 

Reminder,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Make sure you relieve the pressure in the fuel line BEFORE removing the lines from the filter.

 

Thank you. What is the best way to do that? Run the car and pull the fuse or shut off the fuel switch on the passenger side?

 

Had you already taken the other side hose off the filter when you realized you needed the special tool for that side? If so then the pressure is gone. Personally I dont worry about it but I do keep my head clear when I take the hoses off, most pain I have every had was getting a face full of gasoline, I will gladly smash a finger or hand before getting a face full of gasoline again.
The right way would be to start the vehicle then pull the fuse or relay for the fuel pump, the car will start to sputter then die with very little fuel pressure present. Keep in mind that every time the key is turned to on the pump primes.

 

Finally replaced it. AST 8013 Gold tool worked great. Came right off. Pulled the fuel pump fuse with it running to release pressure. The fuel filter was FG-1083. Sorry for the late response. Appreciate the responses. Couldn’t of replaced it otherwise. I attached some pictures.

 

Trying to change my fuel filter on my 93 explorer .. I bought the disconnect tool . But I have no space to get it inside there.I have just about a centimeter between the line connection and the filter housing.. can someone help.. or have any ideas ?

 

If you take a close look at the earlier pix, you will notice the stems of the correct filter are long enough to slide the connection back. If somebody installed the wrong filter with short stems,you have a problem, which if you don't have the tools and facilities can be a messy and dangerous job.

In the female line connection is a circular finger type steel retainer that the fingers get compressed and will allow the line to slide past the rib on the filter stem. There are special "O" rings in that connector, watch that you don't lose them.