This is the first time I've wanted to remove the air filter cover and I find I can't do it because one of the AC lines is virtually wrapped around it and blocks the removal of the air filter cover.

Every image I've seen showing the removal of the air filter cover does not show the AC line which is blocking the cover.

Do I have to dismantle part of the air intake to get enough room to pull out the air filter cover? If so, what part.

I'm thinking of loosening the clamp around the large hose which is attached to the air filter cover, rotating the hose to clear the tab on the hose and then pulling it off.

Here is an image I found which shows the cover and the clamp on the large hose I'm thinking of loosening but it does not have the AC lines running around the filter cover.



In my Ranger, the AC lines runs around the filter cover and there isn't enough room to pull the cover off.

Here's a photo I found which pretty much shows the situation I have, it's not exactly the same, the AC line looks a bit different but does it shows AC lines around the filter cover. Also, as in the photo above, the hose in question on my ranger is attached to another component which is bolted to the air filter cover.



What do you think of my loosening that hose clamp, rotating the hose and pulling it off? That should give me enough room to wiggle the air filter up and off

Bob

 

Sounds like you've got the right idea. I've never oersonally seen lines routed that way. But I also don't really see how that one line is preventing you from doing anything. Pop off the intake tube, move it to the side and then pull the cover off.

 

Thanks for the reply. I'll disconnect the tube from the air filter cover as you said and then pull off the cover.

 

I have a 2.3NS DOHC ranger like yours. You do not need to unbolt anything. Just carefully pull the line back and slide it out from inside the engine bay.

If you are worried that you might hurt this line, I can provide pictures of what you should to/video showing you the exact method I use to remove the airbox lid for filter service.

I have to do a little bit of maintenance/tune-up stuff on it this week so I'd be more than happy to give you an example of what you'd need to do, or any other procedure you might be confused on with your 2.3NS DOHC ranger.

 

The line in question can be seen here in better detail. The airbox lid on the later Duratech rangers does appear to be a little bit smaller, but the concept is the same.