I can't speak to your timing belt issue (having never done one in a Zetec)...
As far as FRAM filters go, it's not that their oil filters are crap, it's that they are basically a very cheap filter being sold for a premium price. Just about ANY other filter is a better value, including (believe it or not) SuperTech, the Wally World house brand. Other good filters are WIX and NAPA Gold (which are the same thing), Purolator, and most especially Motorcraft. I personally use only Motorcraft oil filters on Ford products. AMSOIL, Mobil 1, and K&N are also very high quality, but very pricey, too.
FRAM's air and fuel filters are fine, however.
You should change the fuel filter at LEAST every 30,000 miles. I've never had to depressurise the fuel system...just let the car sit for a little bit before you remove the lines, and be sure to wear safety goggles just in case a little spritzes out. I've done dozens of fuel filters on Ford, GM, and Chrysler products and never had a problem.
