Fuel Filter 1998 Mercury mountaineer

The fuel filter which is located underneath the lower LH side along the frame rail. It is held in place to the frame rail by a large stainless steel snap ring. Before removing the filter the residual fuel pressure in the lines must be released before disconnecting the fuel lines. There is a shrader type valve similar to a tire valve located on the fuel injector rail under the hood. It probably will have a little cap over it just like a tire valve cap. Remove the cap and push the pin in as you would to let the air out of a tire. Protect yourself as static fuel pressure will be released. A large old rag or towel works fine. Its better to release the pressure here rather than have it go all over you from underneath. Of course use common sense no smoking avoiding making sparks etc. There are (2) stainless steel safety clips that will have to be released on either side of the filter first before you can use the tool to release the lines. These clips are placed there to prevent accidental blow off of the fuel line. They kind of snap over the line. Unsnap them by prying them up from the line then slide them free of the inside of the line. Next you will need a special fuel line removal tool that fits inside the fuel line. The line must be pushed towards the filter while the tool is inserted to release a coil spring that fits over a bulge on the fuel line. This is not easy at times the spring inside will have road dirt and corrosion and may give you a hard time in releasing this coil spring . I use spray some penetrating oil in and usually this helps. This line connect design was not one of Fords better ideas. Much patience is needed. If you do get the lines off then the filter body can be pried out of its stainless steel trap using a large screw driver. There is a lot of tension on this clip so wear gloves and eye protection.