If your Thunderbird fuel filter is clogged, your engine will likely sputter and have reduced power. The fuel filter keeps harmful objects and contaminants from entering your engine; unfortunately, these objects and contaminants can cause it to fail. Replacing the fuel filter in the Ford Thunderbird is the same for both the 4.6L V-8 and the 3.8L V-6. These steps cover the Thunderbird made between 1992 to 1997. They do not cover the limited-edition Jaguar-based Thunderbird sold between 2002 and 2004.
Park your Thunderbird on a flat, level surface, suitable for lifting and supporting the vehicle with jack stands.
Relieve the fuel system pressure. Remove the gas cap, then open the hood and locate the fuel system relief valve (near the intake manifold). Remove the cap from the valve, and attach the fuel pressure gauge. Drain the valve into a container to relieve system pressure.
Loosen the nut on the negative (-) battery cable, and then lift the cable away from the battery terminal.
Raise the front of the vehicle using the floor jack, and then support the front end with two jack stands. Once the front is properly supported, lift the rear and support it with two jack stands.
Locate the fuel filter shield near the muffler. Remove the two bolts on the shield using a standard socket wrench. Pull the shield away to access the fuel filter.
Remove the clips from each side of the fuel filter, using a pair of pliers. Pull the lines from the filter, but be careful; a small amount of fuel will leak from the lines.
Insert the new fuel filter into the mount, with the arrows facing the engine. Attach the fuel lines and insert the new clips.
Mount the fuel filter shield, and tighten the bolts to finish. Lower the Thunderbird and reconnect the negative battery cable and the gas cap.
Turn the key to the "On" position (without cranking) for a few seconds, and then turn it back off. Repeat this a few times to rebuild fuel pressure before cranking the engine.
