Hope this doesn't sound stupid, but does anyone know if it's a tough job to replace the fuel filter? 4.6L, 4x4, auto. Also, can a clogged or old fuel filter cause hesitation?

I take it no one knows anything helpful about this?

The filter is fairly easily replaced. You need to have a fuel filter spring lock releasing tool. Yes a partially plugged filter can cause hesitation.

Thanks, way2old, could you let me know the procedure? I haven't replaced a fuel filter before and I don't want to screw it up. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Once you get the tool, just insert it inside the line and push in. When you release the spring, you can pull the line off the filter. Leave the filter in the bracket until you get both lines off. Loosen clamp or screw that holds filter to bracket and slide out. Put new filter in the bracket and tighten it down. Push lines back on filter until you hear a faint click. Pull on lines to be sure they are locked in place. Turn key "on" to power up fuel pump and check for leaks. If no leaks, you installed correctly. Good luck. Let us know.
Here is a link explaining the basics of removing fuel lines with spring lock fittings. It is for a Crown Viv, but the lines come apart the same way.
http://www1.autozone.com/servlet/UiBroker?ForwardPage=/az/cds/en_us/0900823d/80/17/37/e3/0900823d801737e3.jsp

Haven't replaced the filter yet, I have to buy the spring release tool. I wanted to ask if I need to release the pressure on the line first and ask where the release valve is located?

The fuel pump relay is in the under hood fuse box. There are 7 relays in there. If the relays are on the right side of the box, it is the 3rd one from the top. If it is on the left side it is the 4th one from the top. Pull the relay and crank engine over for a few seconds to relieve the pressure. Good luck.

Well, the fuel filter replacement seems to have gone just fine. It wasn't too bad of a job...just a little messy with the fuel draining out of the line.
I smelled like gas for a few hours, but heh....
Anyway, the hesitation seems to have diminished, I'm going to go add some feul injector cleaner and fill 'er up. I'll let you know how it goes from here. Thanks.

Thanks for the follow up. We like to know how things turn out.