How to Remove a Fuel Filter in a 1996 Ford Ranger

by Grace Mclain

The fuel filter removal process on the 1996 Ford Ranger is an easy job when done with the proper tools. The fuel filter is the most important component in the fuel cleaning process. The fuel filter filters out sediments in the fuel before the fuel gets to the engine, trapping the sediments in the filter until it is time to replace the fuel filter. You can replace the fuel filter on the 1996 Ford Ranger in about 30 minutes.

Step 1

Unscrew the gas cap from the gas tank to relieve the fuel pressure from the fuel filter.

Step 2

Locate the fuel filter under the driver side of the truck. The fuel filter is attached to the frame rail under the driver side cab. The fuel filter is attached to a mounting bracket that is attached to the frame rail.

Step 3

Slide the fluid catch pan under the fuel filter to catch excess fuel. There will be a small amount of fuel that will come out of the fuel lines and filter.

Step 4

Remove the mounting bracket bolts that are holding the mounting bracket to the frame rail, using a ratchet and a socket.

Step 5

Loosen the clamp that is holding the fuel filter to the mounting bracket with a flat-head screwdriver. Slide the whole mounting bracket back, over the fuel lines, so you can get to the fuel line connectors on the fuel filter.

Step 6

Slide the flat tip of the screwdriver under the top plastic retaining clips that are holding the fuel line to the fuel filter. The plastic retaining clips are on the top of the fuel line, and the clips lock the fuel lines onto the fuel filter ports. Gently pry upward on the clip until the clip releases from the fuel filter connection. Then gently pull the lines off the fuel filter. Do this on both sides of the fuel filter.