what year did Ford start putting fuel filters in the gas tank

Depending on the vehicle, for example the F-150.... about 1987 -a few years before the 4.6 and otherTriton engines were introduced. Basic rule of thumb: If it is fuel injected the pump and filter is in the tank. Carb, pump on block mechanically driven by a lever on a cam and filter in-line and another filter where fuel line screws in to carb

Don't know for sure, but my 2010 F 150 has the filter in the tank. And I believe it may be part of the pump. Not sure if they can be serviced separately.