I'm in the middle of trying to change out the fuel filter on my '04. I read on here that you don't need to use the special tool to take these off, just push on the orange or green tabs on the connections. I've been pushing like hell on the orange connector, both with my thumb and with a screw driver, the damn thing isn't coming off. I'm pushing on the part visible in the photo below. Is there something that I'm missing here, so I have to squeeze both sides, or am I just pushing at it like a girl?

 

I just used some channel lock pliers to do it because I couldn't push it in enough either.

 

My neighbor (mechanic) is looking to find his tool to pop them off the old fashion way...

Mike, when you used the channel lock pliers, how much pressure did you have to apply to it?

 

i just use a flat tip screw driver to pop these things out

 

I used pliers as well, took a little bit of pressure for mine too. Try squirting it with some water or something to make sure theres no dirt behind the clips.

 

Be careful!!!! I was in the same position as you. I used a pair of vice grips. and pulled like hell. . . but i guess i damaged the clips. Cause i was driving around the next day and the forward fuel line blew off and i had a massive fuel leak while i was drving. So i searched all over the place for new clips and guess what?? They only sale the fuel line for over $300 bucks at ford. I said **** it, and safetywired the fuel line (pulling it tight onto the fuel filter). So mine is all ghetto but it works and better than paying $300. Good luck man. Heres my thread with my situation. . . https://www.ranger-forums.com/forum2...leak-help.html

 

i was wondering the same thing john, i need to change mine but i hate buying tools i dont think i'll use. let us know how it turns out

 

Well, after alot of stress and a beer and a half, I got the damn thing apart!

3 tips...

Remove your transfer case skid plate if you have one (that was part of my problem).
Get a flat head screw driver to press down on the clip -hold the blade against the clip with your finger, don't try and do it holding the handle.
Remove the front clip first, it makes it 1000x easier to get off the rear clips.

Unfortunately, I didn't notice any real difference in pick-up, but the thing needed to be changed out anyhow after100,000+ miles.

 

I'm glad man. Enjoy!!

 

Ha, thanks. I never read your comment till after I got the damn thing off, but I'm glad I didn't end up having to deal with that!

 

Yea, they are a real PITA. Ford always has to make things so difficult for us. Yea, I didn't notice any real performance increase in mine either John.

 

BTW I have broken the clips before also. Advance auto has replacement clips and even fuel line repair ends.