Replacing a Fuel Filter on a Crown Victoria

by Don BowmanUpdated November 07, 2017

To replace a fuel filter on a Crown Victoria, a fuel line spring expander tool will be needed. Any auto parts store has them and they are inexpensive. It also works to remove the fuel lines at the tank and at the engine. Before removing the fuel filter disconnect the electrical connector at the coil and turn the engine over for three or four turns. Reconnect the coil. This dissipates the fuel pressure in the line so there is no big surprise when the fuel filter is disconnected.

Raise and support the vehicle on jack stands. The filter is on the driver’s side of the car, about half way back on the bottom of the vehicle. It is attached to a bracket on the frame rail. Remove the 10mm screw that holds the fuel filter to the frame. Grab the fuel filter with one hand and with the other use the fuel line spring expander and put it around the fuel line with the long end toward the filter. Push the tool into the fuel filter and the tool will expand the spring, loosening the metal fuel line.

Pull the fuel line out of the filter. Do the same on the other end. Before replacing the fuel filter look at the side of it for an arrow. The arrow is the direction of fuel flow and it must be installed with the arrow pointing toward the engine. Put the filter into the bracket and insert the metal fuel line into the fuel filter and push the two of them together until a snap can be heard, indicating the spring is locked into place. Give the two a gentle pull to see if they come apart. Do the opposite side the same way and check for security. Tighten the bracket around the fuel filter. Let the car down and cycle the key on and off several times, pausing for five seconds between each sequence to give the computer time to reset. This will charge the lines with fuel pressure. Inspect the job for leaks.

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