Fuel filter is stuck. Apparently the previous owner made one fit. 98 4.0 OHV.

I had the lean codes (p0171/p0174) when the weather got cold in the fall and after checking all the vacuum lines, it actually turned out to be the intake gaskets which I just changed and codes stopped except when well below zero. I tried to change the fuel filter months ago at the beginning but couldn't get the tank end off. Looked like the filter was on backwards based on the shape of it compared to my replacement. Old one had no visible markings (flow arrow). I just got the PCV hose and grommet to complete the fix but still thought I'd change the fuel filter since I never had. Way overdue. Tried today and made the sad sad discovery. I have a variety of quick disconnect tools that I've accumulated over the years and had no trouble with the engine side. Came off just like they always do or should but the tank side wouldn't budge. The filter would spin and the O-ring felt like it was making good contact but couldn't get the three "spring" tabs to release. Then I realized the problem. The tool would not go in far enough as it would contact what appears to be a second ring that is not locked in. I finally cut the filter off leaving a stub of tubing so I could see better and there is a second ring just inside the opening blocking the action of the tool on the spring clips that are apparently hanging on to another ring. I tried all kinds of Macguyver-esque manipulations but to no avail. I tried to pull it straight out but had no luck there either. I did notice some marks on this fitting like someone had put a wrench to it before but the fitting is working and not leaking.

So now I'm stuck! Fortunately I have a few vehicles to drive so not a big deal right now but just thought I'd vent a bit and maybe someone out there has a trick they could share. My other options are cutting the flex part back to the flared metal tube (only about 5-6 inches back) and clamping the crap out of some new flexible line (I know it has to take up to 70-80psi). Or dropping the tank and replacing the line for like 250 bucks.

Any feedback will be greatly appreciated.

 

I've Seen fuel line repair kits that replace like the last few inches of a line. Maybe you can find and use one of those.

BTW, my FF was fact/original (160K), took a good heave to get it to come loose. And I ended up replacing all the clips. You should have seen all the dirt flow out of it.

 

Thanks for the reply! I'm probably gonna just have to force it off too. I did find the Dorman replacement clips and O-rings at Advance Auto. Not sure if they have them in stock but at least I can get them. I'll try that before cutting the line. There is a flare back about 5-6 inches where the flexible line meets the hard line so I could get some new line and double clamp on both ends.

I cut the dirty side of the filter to get a better look and the gas that came out that end was brown.

Right now I have to wait for it to stop snowing. I'm right in the middle of it and of course the truck is outside since I'm working with gas.

 

I actually not in Maine yet, Spring 14 seems more like. (stupid ME. DOT) I'm still in WV, so YEP, WE GOT SNOW.

 

I'm sort of stuck right now. Just cleaned my driveway but the rest of the area is still covered and waiting for a plow. Only about 4 inches but heavy and slippery. I'm hoping to go out and try to rip that filter off if it ever stops. Don't feel like laying in the slush to do it. Fortunately I've got other vehicles to drive if I don't get to it today.

 

Maine always sounds nice but long winters. Not that it's been a piece of cake in MD or WV this years.