Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Another question about fuel filters

[DonSimpson]

I,m a little confused now, I was reciently talking to buddy about fuel filters and he said that when the fuel filter is changed out , the canister should be filled up with transmission fluid prior to installing the element. I have not heard of this and was wondering if anyone out there has ever heard of this before, I don't know if this helps to clean the injectors, lubricate the system of what, just seems a little far fetched to me but I am trying to search and find out more about it. If anyone has any information and would share it, I might be a little more informed. Thank you in advance, Don Simpson. 2001 Dodge Extended cab 4x4 owner, love this truck.

 

[GaryOwen]

A number of big truck drivers did that back in the olden days to clean injectors. The guy I bought my 95 from did it at each filter change, so I tried it on my first filter change. Ran real bad and smoked real bad for a few minutes. I'll never do it again. Use a real injector cleaner if you think you need one. I occasionally use Power Service Diesel Kleen and it has worked well for me.



Another negative is you are putting red dye into your fuel system that could cause big problems if your tank is ever dipped.

 

[BDaugherty]

when the fuel filter is changed out , the canister should be filled up with transmission fluid prior to installing the element.

Major bull hockey. Don't do it. Transmission fluid is for transmissions, hence the name. Do your fuel system a favor and only feed it diesel fuel and additives intended for fuel system use.

 

[DonSimpson]

Thanks, I wasn't sure, some people can make anything sound good (he shoul've been a salesman). I told him I would check into it before I was going to pour t-fluid into my fuel, so thanks this cleared it up- NO t-fluid in it for me.

 

[NIsaacs]

Like Gary said, it was a common practise with spin-on fuel filters and no lift or primer pumps on the Cummins engines in the big trucks. When I changed out a fuel filter at the shop I didn't mind sticking my hand in the fuel tank and dipping a small container in the diesel to fill up the filter on install. However if I changed it out on the road I kept a quart of ATF for pre-fill. I did not ever see any side affects at the time other then no nasty diesel smelly hands



Nick