How to Change the Fuel Filter on a 1998 Ford Ranger XLT

Park the 1998 Ford Ranger XLT on level ground and set the parking brake.

Remove the gas cap from the gas tank to relieve the fuel pressure from the fuel filter.

Jack up the front of the 1998 Ford Ranger XLT and set the jack stands under the frame rail directly behind each front tire.

Crawl under the 1998 Ford Ranger XLT directly below the driver-side door. The fuel filter is inside the driver-side frame rail on which the cab sits. The fuel filter on the 1998 Ford Ranger XLT has one quick-connect fuel line on each end of the fuel filter. You will need a fuel line quick-disconnect tool to remove this fuel filter.

Place the fuel catch pan under the fuel filter to catch the little bit of excess gas that is inside the fuel filter and the fuel lines.

Slide the round end of the quick-disconnect tool inside the end of the fuel line where the fuel line meets the fuel filter port. Press the tool inward until the fuel line unlocks from the port. Slide the fuel line off the fuel filter port. Use the quick-disconnect tool to remove both fuel lines.

Slide the fuel filter out of the round metal bracket. Use a rubber mallet to tap the fuel filter out if necessary.

Slide the new fuel filter into the round metal bracket with the arrow on the fuel filter facing the engine. The arrow represents the fuel flow through the fuel filter.

Slide the fuel lines straight onto the fuel filter ports until they lock in place. Slide the fuel catch pan out from under the truck.

Screw the gas cap back on the gas tank. Turn the ignition on and off three different times to prime the fuel filter with fuel and remove air from the fuel lines.

Crank the engine and inspect the fuel filter for leaks while the engine is running. Turn the engine off.

Jack up the 1998 Ford Ranger XLT and remove the jack stands. Lower the truck to the ground.