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10,000 Mile EcoDiesel Fuel Filter Change

Attention: TDR Forum Junkies
To the point: Click this link and check out the Front Page News story(ies) where we are tracking the introduction of the 2025 Ram HD trucks.

Thanks, TDR Staff

TDRadmin

Staff Member
Okay, I’ll sum it up in three words - not so easy!

First, this little rascal is hidden underneath the bed of the truck, about mid-way back and just to the left-of-center. Ease of access, let’s call it a 5, and that’s assuming that you don’t mind laying on your back. Here is the photo.

Eco Photo-A.JPG


Second, when opened, the tiny yellow drain valve thingee doesn’t drain much fuel. I had hoped it would allow at least 2/3 of the bowl to drain, thus preventing a fuel bath when the bowl was removed. This would not be the case. I drained about two ounces.

Eco Photo-B.JPG


Time to remove the filter bowl: out comes the trusty strap wrench. Wrap it around the bottom of the plastic canister and turn counterclockwise. Place a drain pan (Tupperware-type plastic bowl) under the canister. Turn the strap wrench counterclockwise and be prepared to have diesel fuel run down your arm as you remove the canister.

Eco Photo-C.JPG

Eco Photo-D.JPG


Insert curse word here __________ .

(Hey don’t say I didn’t warn you.)

Reinstallation is the opposite of removal.

For the record, (with the tank lowered we could carefully trace the lines), the small 5/16” line is the line for fuel into the filter, the larger 3/8” line is fuel out to the engine.

Also, for the record, we have asked TDR and Geno’s Garage guru, Lonnie Turner, to see if he can make us a fuel filter canister removal tool.

Actually in hindsight this would have gone better with the "Sprite tool." Yep, loosen the cartridge and capture the diesel fuel and the bottom of the cartridge in the Sprite tool.

Sprite-Tool.jpg

And, here is another tip from a TDR member to prevent the diesel fuel spill: That's what wide/thick rubber bands are for. A wide/thick rubber band gives you enough grip so you can spin the filter bowl off while the bag covers everything. And the bag is large enough to prevent spillage.

Finally, to reprime the fuel filter/fuel canister, turn the key to the 'Run' position (do not start) and listen for the transfer pump to buzz and reprime the system. It will shut off after 20 seconds. Repeat two more times and the truck should start without any glitches. If it does stumble and die, do not be alarmed. Try repriming. The fuel injection system will eventually purge the air. (This isn't your father's old tractor, you don't have to "crack" an injector to bleed out air.)

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