Separating the fuel lines on an '88

[zookeeper]

I'm trying to get the intake off of my '88 and can't seem to get the fuel lines off. I bought a tool, supposedly meant for such lines, and just like the manual I have recommended, I'm using the 3/8" tool. It fits into the fitting alright, but no matter how hard I push, pull and cuss, it won't come apart. Please check my pics to make sure I have the right tool, and it's facing the right way and if anyone has any suggestions, I'm all ears. Thanks guys! Also, sorry about the crappy focus, I must've been a bit close, hopefully it's enough.

 

[RangerJoe]

Thats the right tool, I'm not sure if thats the right size for the line your removing. Sometimes they will come off the first try, other times you will cuss and throw things trying to get them off.

Push the lines together, as if they were apart and your trying to put them together. Push the tool into the groove, twist is around while your working it in. When you feel like its in all the way, gently twist the lines back and forth while pulling them apart. I think I actually put a little vaseline on the end of the tool the last time.

There is a round spring type thing inside the female fitting end. The tool is designed to slip underneath this spring and push it back so that the male end of the fuel line can slip out. If that size tool isn't working for you, try the next larger size and see if you have better luck.

 

[zookeeper]

Thanks for the advice. I tried the next tool up like you suggested, it went in, but no difference, it's still stuck. There's no dirt or corrosion, the tool is going in under the spring, and I even tried wiggling it a bit by removing the rails and injectors and wiggling as much as is possible, which ain't much. Anyway, it's still stuck and I've given up for the night, maybe tomorrow will bring new energy. I have a brand-new lower A/C line on my bench with the same type connection so now I see what I'm up against, but I'm just frustrated from fighting it. Thanks for the help, hopefully it'll come apart after a night's sleep.

 

[Shakerhood]

That is the correct style tool, I usually spray a little PB Blaster in there first and then push the line in before pulling it apart.

 

[ID89GT]

Those things are a pain, I usually push them together as tight as I can, push the tool in as far as I can then pull the, apart.

 

[bp50]

Try relieving the fuel pressure from the
schrader valve if not done already

 

[zookeeper]

Yeah, the pressure is off already, I was hoping that was it myself, but no such luck. Thanks though, keep the suggestions coming if you have 'em, I do appreciate it!

 

[jrichker]

Check the size marked on the tool. I believe that 1/2" and 5/8" are the sizes needed for the fuel lines.

The first time you take them apart, it is a two man job. Do as advised, but have a helper holding one side of the tube while you work on the other. Once the little top hat is depressed as far as it will go, have the helper pull while you hold fast onto your end.

 

[ID89GT]

If all you are doing is the intake manifold, why not just fold them over out of the way?

 

[zookeeper]

Funny you should say that. I didn't know they'd go over far enough to get the intake out, but after removing the injectors, the whole fuel rail setup easily moved over to the passenger side enough to get the intake out quite easily. I really appreciate everyone's help, I'll post up lots of interesting things I found that caused the oil leaks I had later. Thanks again guys. Jim