Fuel Pressure Release & Fuel Line Connections

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1992 Mercury Tracer, 1992 Ford Escort, 1991 Mercury Tracer, and 1991 Ford Escort. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: For reassembly reference, label all electrical connectors, vacuum hoses and fuel lines before removal. Also place mating marks on engine hood and other major assemblies before removal.

CAUTION: Fuel system is under pressure. Pressure must be released before servicing fuel system components.

Depress retaining clips and remove rear seat cushion. Disconnect fuel pump connections. Start engine and operate until it stalls. Turn ignition off and reconnect fuel pump. Install rear seat cushion.
Before disconnecting fuel lines, disconnect negative battery cable. To disconnect fuel lines, remove retaining clip from outside of fuel line coupling.
Use Spring Lock Coupling Remover (D87L-9280-A) for 3/8" line or (D87L-9280-B) for 1/2" line. Install spring lock coupling remover on fuel line coupling so it enters cage opening. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Disconnecting Fuel Lines
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Push spring lock coupling remover into cage opening to release female fitting from garter spring. Pull couplings apart. Remove spring lock coupling remover.
To install fuel lines, install new "O" rings on fuel lines. Use only specified fuel resistant "O" rings (Brown in color). Before installing, lightly coat "O" rings with clean engine oil. Clean fittings and replace garter spring (if necessary).
Fit female fitting to male fitting and push until garter spring snaps over flared end of female fitting. Ensure lines are locked together and garter spring is over female fitting flared end.
Install retaining clip. Ensure horseshoe portion of clip is over coupling. DO NOT install retaining clip over rubber fuel line.