How to Change the Gas Filter on a '99 Expedition

The gas filter in the 1999 Ford Expedition is designed to filter out damaging deposits and contaminates present in the gasoline. Replacement of the fuel filter is a maintenance project that should be completed every 15,000 miles. This will protect expensive fuel system components such as fuel injectors from becoming clogged and prevent unnecessary strain on the fuel pump caused by restrictions in the filter. The average home mechanic can complete this task in an hour using special Ford fuel-line tools and other basic hand tools.

Instructions

1

Remove the fuel pump fuse from the under-hood fuse block and start the engine. Allow the engine to run until it stalls. This will relieve any residual fuel pressure on the system. Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery using a 10 mm wrench.

2

Apply the parking brake and wedge wheel chocks against the passenger-side tires. Raise and support the driver-side of the SUV using a floor jack and jack stands positioned under the left frame rail.

3

Remove the metal safety clips from both fuel lines on the fuel filter by using a screwdriver to pry them off the lines. Wipe away dirt and debris buildup from around the quick disconnect fittings on the lines, and push the lines onto the fuel filter as far as they will go.

4

Slip the fuel-line disconnect tool over one of the fuel filter nipples, between the filter and the fuel line, with the flat side of the tool facing the filter. Push the tool into the fitting on the end of the line to spread the locking tabs located inside the fitting. Pull the line off the filter. Repeat the step for the remaining fuel-line fitting.

5

Unsnap the old filter from the spring steel bracket that attaches it to the frame of the Expedition. Snap the new filter into place in the bracket with the arrow stamped on the side of the filter pointing towards the front of the truck. Push both fuel lines onto the filter nipples until they snap in place and can't be removed by hand.

6

Prime the fuel system by turning the ignition key on and off several time. Start the engine and check for leaks. Raise the Ford off the jack stands and remove the stands. Lower the truck to the ground and test drive it to verify it runs properly.