Fuel line in front of fuel rail

[VolvoMonkey]

Trying to remove the fuel rail - I can't figure out how to disconnect the fuel line below.

Haynes says "Disconnect the quick-release fuel line coupling in front of the fuel rail using a 17mm spanner to push back the coupling sleeves. Be prepared for fuel spillage as the coupling is released. Plus the coupling after disconnection to prevent further loss of fuel."

Unfortunately, I just stand there with my 17mm 'spanner' in hand and feel like a dumb ape. Any suggestions?

[VolvoMonkey]

For now, I've cheated and disconnected the fuel line where it attaches to the fuel rail instead of at the quick-release connector. Will probably make it harder to feed through the intake manifold when I remove that tomorrow... so I'd still like suggestions on how to disconnect at the quick-release connector.

[jimmy57]

They make a set of plastic split sleeves that push back the "fingers" that latch the line on the formed ridge.
I have made a sleeve out of PEX by splitting it and removing a section if needed (you will need to, the line is 5/16 OD and 1/2 PEX/QEST is going to be too big) and then sliding it up into the cuff to push the fingers open and then slide the cuff off the line.
You may have some other suitable plastic hose you could use.

[VolvoMonkey]

Cool. I'll give it a shot.

[VolvoMonkey]

I cut a cheap BIC pen in half lengthwise and that did the trick! Thanks a ton for the hint.

[rspi]

Why would you use a manual when the instructions on the site are much better?

[erikv11]

Why would you complain about someone following instructions?

There are dozens of sources out there. With dozens of conflicting advices on the "right" way to do repairs. Haynes has some known weaknesses, sure, but is a very good source for just about everything.