The 1989 Ford Mustang was the 25th-anniversary edition. That year they placed the running horse on the dash with "25 Years" inscribed underneath. This fun sports car gave you style and power rolled into one. It came in coupe and convertible body styles. People love to find these gems and fix them up. Taking the time to learn how to do it yourself is rewarding and a great way to spend your time.
To relieve the fuel-system pressure, find the fuel-pump switch, also know as the "inertia switch" (the switch is a safety device that shuts off fuel flow to the engine in the event of a collision). The switch is located in the trunk on the driver's side, under the carpet . Lift the carpet to expose the switch and unplug the switch's electrical connector. Start the engine and and allow it to run until it stalls out. Turn the ignition key off. Jack up the rear of the car and place a jack stand under the frame on either side. Lower the car onto the jack stands and remove the jack.
The fuel filter is mounted under your vehicle in front of the gas tank, next to the frame. Crawl under the car and place the drain pan underneath the fuel filter. Remove the plastic "hairpin" clips, which are located on each end of the fuel filter. This is a two-part process. Spread the two clip legs about 1/8 inch apart and then push in on them. Pull on the other end of the clip to detach it from the fitting.
Warning: if the new fuel pump did not come with new clips, do not use any tools on the old ones or they may break. Inspect the clips for damage.
Remove the hoses one at a time. Pull them straight off the filter, so as to not bend the connections.
With a screwdriver, loosen the clamp holding the fuel filter. Remove the filter, making note of the direction it's facing.
Install new one in the same direction as the old one. Most new filters have arrows on them to indicate the direction of fuel flow. The arrow should be pointing toward the front of the car. Replace both hoses carefully onto new fuel filter. Re-install the hairpin clips--be sure that the clips are attached securely. If they fall off, fuel will leak. Re-tighten the clamp.
Lower the vehicle to the ground. Reconnect the fuel switch's electrical connection. If the switch was "popped" during the procedure, simply push the rest button. Start the engine and check for leaks.
