How to remove fuel filter from gas tank bracket? 06 Freestar
 

Hi everyone-

I went to replace my fuel filter on my 2006 Freestar van and could not loosen the bracket that holds the filter in place. It is a plastic enclosure that appears to be attached to the tank by 2 plastic rivets or bolts - though I tried to unscrew these. I am not sure how to get this thing off. Any suggestions from folks who have done this on the Freestar?

Thanks in advance!
Jack

RE: How to remove fuel filter from gas tank bracket? 06 Freestar
 

Looked in my 2004 manual and it appears the filter is mounted in the middle of the van under the floor board. Don't know about the 2006 but are you sure that is the fuelfilter and if I may ask way are you trying to change it?

RE: How to remove fuel filter from gas tank bracket? 06 Freestar
 

If you are asking why, it's because I have 26000 miles on it and it's time.

RE: How to remove fuel filter from gas tank bracket? 06 Freestar
 

I have 60.000 miles on mine and never changed it. Some of these so called maintainanceitems aredesigned to sell more Motorcraft parts IMHO.
Coming back to the filter I had another look in the manual and I believe you are looking at the wrong thing. The filter should be in between the fuel line and is about 4-5 inches long. I believe the part close to the fuel tank is the evaporative emission cannister and the cover has a couple of push in plastic connectors.
Good luck and if everything fails check with your dealer and ask him where the fuel filter is located.

RE: How to remove fuel filter from gas tank bracket? 06 Freestar
 

I am looking at the fuel filter for sure. It has a plastic shroud that protects/covers it. There are 2 platic 'bolts' that hold this shroud on. I am looking to learn how to remove these bolts.

RE: How to remove fuel filter from gas tank bracket? 06 Freestar
 

If these "plastic bolts" are the type without a slot etc, meaning flat on top you just pull them out by trying to put something under them and slowly pulling them up.
I will try to send you some pictures if I can find the time.

RE: How to remove fuel filter from gas tank bracket? 06 Freestar
 

Hi. Tried to send you a couple of pictures from my 2004 manual but had some trouble uploading them to this forum.
If you would like them send me your email address and I will send them to you.
Jake

RE: How to remove fuel filter from gas tank bracket? 06 Freestar
 

I did get the plastic bolts out, they just pull up. The problem now is that 1/2 of the filter is hidden under the tank and it's impossible to get to. Ford really made it hard to do this usually simple job. It seems that the tank will have to be lowered a little to access the 2 fittings.