Fuel filter advice

[ERMiles]

This has been the longest span of time for this truck without a costly (over $250. 00) repair - knock on wood! But something is telling me I'd better change my fuel filter. Several times over the last year or so, I have started to change it and not gotten around to it - now it really needs to be done! I get stuck on what's the best brand/type of filter and how the heck is it done. I'm sure it's a simple proces but if someone could direct me to a step-by-step on the site or just tell me how they do it my Ram would be smilin'.

Also, how often do people change theirs?

The Kubota is next - or should I practice on it?

 

[dan brooks]

I actually just did this yesterday... .



*Unplug the water-in-fuel sensor connector

*Unscrew the filter (I found that pulling the rubber tube off the sensor made this a lot easier)

*Dump all the diesel fuel from the filter all over the engine and fender (optional)

*Remove the small, "square" rubber ring from the filter mount (I had to do this by the braille method - too much stuff in the way to see it)

*Unscrew the WIF sensor from the filter and remove the O-ring from the sensor

*Coat the new O-ring with motor oil and install on the sensor

*Screw the sensor into the filter

*Coat the "square" rubber ring with oil and install on the filter mount

*Fill the filter with diesel fuel

*Coat the gasket with oil

*Dump all the diesel fuel out of the filter and onto the engine and fender while trying to screw the filter back on (optional)

*Reconnect WIF sensor connector and drain tube

*Loosen bleeder screw (10mm hex head plug on banjo fitting above filter) and use lever on feed pump to fill the filter - it took me about 20 pumps to get all the air out

*Tighten bleeder screw (not optional)



It probably would help if you use the WIF drain to get rid of most of the fuel from the filter before you remove it - that way you only dump clean diesel all over the engine when you're putting the new filter in.



It actually was a pretty easy job - I was worried about getting air in the lines but the truck fired right up and runs fine, so I guess I did okay.



EDIT: The previous owner left a new CarQuest filter behind the seat so I used it. I'll pick up Fleetguard filters next time I'm at the local KW shop and use them from now on.

 

[ERMiles]

WOW! thanks, Dan, for the fast reply! and thanks for the info. What brand of filter do you use/recommend. Sounds like you replace the O ring and gasket - anything else?

Thanks again;

Ted

 

[gquehrn]

Fuel Filter Replacement

Smiles,



I use a MOPAR #04429107AB Fuel Filter and change it every time I change my oil (@6000 miles). Only before I install the filter, I fill it with Sea Foam Motor Treatment. Sea Foam cleans injectors and whole bunch other good stuff for your diesel. Hope this helps.



Gordy

 

[dan brooks]

Ted - Just the O-ring and gasket, and both came with the filter. I know the Fleetguard oil filters are highly recommended but I haven't heard too much about the fuel filters. They actually cost less than the *cough* Fram *cough* fuel filters at Auto Zone, so that's just one more reason for me to use Fleetguard.

 

[lbrown]

Ted:



I change the fuel filter every other oil change. When I first got the beast I tried to go the full 10,000 miles like the manual said and ended up with a wax plugged filter during the winter. I change oil about every 3500 miles.



I use the Fleetguard filters.



To remove the fuel filter I use a small filter wrench that I have for my Plymouth Sundance. Whatever you do DO NOT use the wrench to put it on. Use your hands only.



I always remove the fuel before removing the filter by using a gallon plastic jug stuck up there with the plastic tube in it and press up on the bottom of the WIF.



I have never loosened the bleeder screw or pumped the lift pump. I have never had any problem with it firing up right away. Of course I have been lucky in not optionally dumping the fuel on engine and fender.

 

[paccool]

Fleetguard #1232



I just leave the filter a little loose and then use the lever on the fuel pump to fill up. Then tighten the filter. Has always started right up. Make sure the lever is is in the up position when you are finished.

 

[farmall]

I always fill the filter up. Then install it a little loose. Pump the lift pump until it squirts out. Go ahead and tighten the filter and hook everything back up. Then for sh!ts and giggles I pull the wire off the fuel solenoid and crank it over a few times. Put the wire back on and fire it up. Then check for leaks. Bill

 

[BushWakr - RIP]

Whew !!! for a minute there I thought a couple of you guys were gonna make a mistake when you typed WIF sensor... . sure glad no one typed WTF sensor... cause mine's hooped. .



bob.



I just know the moderator is gonna smack me for that one... . he's such a knob...

 

[JLEONARD]

I only change the fuel filter once a year (10/12 K). I have been using NAPA filters because it's convenient.

I haven't had a problem with fuel... . yet

Jay

 

[ERMiles]

I just love this site!!!

Thanks guys, I'm gonna print all this out and have it by my side as I do it. Now all I need is for the Arctic air to go back where it came from or spend a day cleaning junk & chasing the animals outta my barn/garage.

Ted

 

[Old Smoky]

WTF sensor

Mine is going off all of the time! I am thinking of just disconnecting it, after going through 3 bulbs. :-laf



Mike





(couldn't resist)

 

[BushWakr - RIP]

right on Mike, what's life if you can't have a few laugh's... ...



Apparently my bulb has never been that bright to begin with...



Bob.

 

[bgilbert]

WTF?

WTF . . ? ok i might not be catching on here, but is WTF sensor the Wait To Fart sensor??

 

[farmall]

I have a feeling it means What The Frig in gentle terms. Bill