This procedure covers the replacement of the fuel pressure regulator on the 2011-2014 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost engine, including fuel system depressurization, regulator removal, and installation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Fuel pressure regulator × 1 — CM5316 or equivalent OEM
• Fuel pressure regulator O-rings × 1 — Usually included with regulator
• Fuel line O-rings (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure the engine is completely cool to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Disconnect the negative battery cable to eliminate ignition sources
4. Place absorbent pads or towels under the fuel rail area to catch fuel spillage
5. Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area
6. Remove the engine cover by pulling upward on the cover to release the grommets

Procedure

1. 1

   Relieve fuel system pressure
   Locate the fuel rail Schrader valve on the driver's side fuel rail. Attach the fuel pressure gauge to the Schrader valve. Open the gauge valve slowly to bleed fuel pressure into a suitable container. Monitor the gauge until pressure reads 0 psi. Close the valve and remove the gauge. This step is critical to prevent fuel spray during disassembly.
   ⚠️Fuel will discharge from the Schrader valve. Direct flow into a container and keep away from ignition sources.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connectors
   Locate the fuel pressure regulator on the rear of the driver's side fuel rail. Press the tab on the electrical connector and pull straight off the regulator. If present, disconnect the vacuum line from the regulator by pressing the release collar and pulling the line free. Mark the orientation of any vacuum lines for proper reinstallation.
3. 3

   Remove intake tube if necessary
   For improved access to the regulator, you may need to loosen or remove the air intake tube between the throttle body and air filter housing. Loosen the hose clamps at both ends and disconnect any breather hoses. Carefully move the intake tube aside without disconnecting it completely if possible.
   ℹ️On some configurations, adequate access may be available without removing the intake tube. Assess clearance before proceeding.
4. 4

   Disconnect fuel supply line
   Locate the fuel supply line connection at the fuel rail. Use the appropriate fuel line disconnect tool to release the quick-connect fitting. Push the tool into the fitting while pulling the fuel line away from the rail. Be prepared for residual fuel spillage. Inspect the O-rings in the quick-connect fitting for damage and replace if necessary.
   ⚠Residual fuel under slight pressure may spray when disconnecting. Have towels ready and keep face away from the connection point.
5. 5

   Remove fuel pressure regulator mounting hardware
   Locate the two regulator mounting screws securing the fuel pressure regulator to the fuel rail. Using the appropriate socket or driver, remove both screws while supporting the regulator. Keep track of any washers or spacers. The regulator is now ready for removal.
   Torque spec

   Regulator Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove fuel pressure regulator
   Carefully pull the fuel pressure regulator straight out from the fuel rail. You may need to gently wiggle it to break the O-ring seal. Expect a small amount of residual fuel to drain from the regulator and rail. Place the old regulator in a suitable container for disposal. Inspect the regulator bore in the fuel rail for debris or damage.
7. 7

   Prepare new fuel pressure regulator
   Remove the new fuel pressure regulator from its packaging. Verify that new O-rings are included and properly seated on the regulator body. Lightly lubricate the O-rings with clean engine oil or fuel to ease installation and prevent tearing. Do not use petroleum jelly or other lubricants. Compare the old and new regulators to confirm correct replacement part.
8. 8

   Install new fuel pressure regulator
   Carefully align the new fuel pressure regulator with the bore in the fuel rail. Ensure the mounting screw holes are properly oriented. Push the regulator straight into the rail with steady pressure until it seats completely. Do not twist or angle the regulator during installation to avoid damaging the O-rings. The regulator should sit flush against the fuel rail mounting surface.
9. 9

   Install regulator mounting screws
   Insert both regulator mounting screws and thread them by hand to avoid cross-threading. Using a torque wrench, tighten the screws to specification in a cross pattern to ensure even seating. Do not overtighten as this can damage the regulator body or strip the threads in the fuel rail.
   ⚠These screws require only 5.0 Nm (4.0 lb-ft). Overtightening can crack the regulator housing.
   Torque spec

   Regulator Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect fuel supply line
    Inspect the fuel line quick-connect fitting and O-rings for damage. Replace O-rings if worn or damaged. Push the fuel supply line straight onto the fuel rail connection until you hear and feel a distinct click. Pull back on the line to verify it is locked in place. The connection should be secure with no movement.
    ℹ️A proper connection will click audibly. If no click is heard, remove and retry the connection.
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical and vacuum connections
    Push the electrical connector onto the fuel pressure regulator until it clicks into place. Verify the connector is fully seated and the locking tab is engaged. If a vacuum line was disconnected, reconnect it to the regulator port, ensuring it is fully seated and the collar locks into place.
12. 12

    Reinstall removed components
    If the air intake tube was removed or loosened, reinstall it in the reverse order of removal. Tighten all hose clamps securely. Reconnect any breather hoses. Ensure all connections are tight and properly routed. Reinstall the engine cover by aligning the grommets and pressing down firmly until seated.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and prime fuel system
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Turn the ignition key to the ON position (without starting) for 5 seconds, then OFF. Repeat this cycle 3-4 times to allow the fuel pump to pressurize the system. Check all connections for fuel leaks during this process. Do not proceed if any leaks are observed.

Reassembly

1. Verify all fuel line connections are secure and locked in place
2. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged
3. Confirm the engine cover is properly installed with all grommets seated
4. Clean up any spilled fuel with absorbent materials and dispose of properly according to local regulations

Verification

• With the engine off and key in ON position, verify fuel pressure builds and holds at the Schrader valve (should read approximately 55-65 psi for EcoBoost)
• Visually inspect all fuel connections for leaks while the system is pressurized
• Start the engine and allow it to idle. Check for fuel leaks around the regulator, fuel rail connections, and supply line
• Listen for smooth engine operation with no fuel starvation symptoms (rough idle, hesitation)
• Verify no fuel odors are present in the engine compartment after running the engine for several minutes
• Test drive the vehicle and confirm normal acceleration and engine performance under various load conditions
• Recheck all connections after the test drive for any signs of seepage or leaks

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