Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) fuel filter change!

[ralphr]

about six months ago I changed the lift pump, then had to go to the dealer to get a reflash for "defuel on start". the filter was changed with the lift pump, so it was time to change filter again, (I always had problems starting after filter change). well, it went no differant now then ever before!! removed canister cleaned and replaced filter and housing. I did not fill fuel canister with fuel but I did use my gauge pressure relief valve to vent the air as I cycled the pump, (bump starter solution), lift pump ran for the 30 - 45 sec and after 4 "bumps" got stream of fuel with no noticable air bubbles, (gauge was connected to the outlet line going towards injector pump). read 16 lbs on gauge, so tried to light her off, almost caught on first try, then nothing!! did not want to crank it for more than 45 seconds at a time but it seemed like 10 or 15 tries later, I decieded to check things, when I opened the fuel filler I got a surge of pressure when the cap came off,. (I previously removed the rubber cap from the vent on the tank, I finally did what I have always done before, that is lossen two or three injector connections and crank, crank and crank until I get fuel seaping from those connections, then tightening and cranking until it finally fires up, (two hours on this one start to finish!!!!



one, what if anything am I doing wrong?? and what might be the problem??? fuel pressure at 15 at idle and drop to 9 - 10 on wide open throttle. any inpu would be appreciated!!!!!

 

[Ron Bissett]

what to do ?

your filter cover on 99 has ports left after should be for gauge and is after filter other you can use to bleed air by backing out small amount watch during bump of starter do this two or three times . Cranking not more than ten seconds to fifteen second at a time no more than three times in one min then wait two or more min for heat . when cranking hold to floor if no start out of gear let off soon as possible will run ruff till it clears of air . Best to bleed canister as will filter fuel as it bleeds air . Ron in LOUISVILLE KY:-{} P. S Some times a gauge will show the correct PSI but it will be compressed air as the air in line works just like a fluid Thats why filling the large canister is best way. RonOo.

 

[MarkF]

The first time I needed the fuel filter changed It was at the stealer for a silly warrantee issue with the seat. I asked them to do the fuel filter while they had it. $85. 00:{ #@$%! The %$#@*& never told me it was that much!

Just did my next feul filter change myself tody. Less than ten minutes start to finish.



Extended drain tube to bucket, opened drain valve, removed the filter housing cover, discarded old filter, cleaned all that neaded claening, replaced o-ring, installed new filter onto cover (Fleetguard Strattapore) set filter into filter housing, had the wife cycle the key on and off about 5 or 6 times (not bump starter). After each cycle I would pull the filter cover up a tiny bit to check for fuel, this filled the filter housing with fuel, I screwed down the cover tightened accordingly, and said with fingers crossed see if she starts. The wife twisted the key and the mighty Cummins sprang to life. Oo. I hope this method helps others.





I was a little worried, it took me an hour, to get it started when I installed the Fuel Pressure Guage on a new Drilled Banjo bolt. That time cracked open injector lines and lots of starter bump.

 

[Ram3500]

Ch Fuel Filter

ralphr



You have a 99, 3500 like I do. I have close to 70K and change the fuel filter every 15K.



All you have to do, when you replace the fuel filter, is fill the fuel filter housing with diesel, as close to the top a you can. Put it on, do not try and vent the air. Cycle the pump by turning the key on. Turn the key completely off, then bump start the engine (do not start) you will hear the lift pump cycle for about 15 sec's. start the truck.



I have done this many time and the truck will start the first time and evety time.



Ray

 

[jboehm]

Did pretty much the same to mine, after (omigosh)35k... filled the cannister, etc... bumped the switch a time or two, loosend on e fo the banjo fittings east of the filter for a second. . no problem. Probably could have cranked on it for another 15 seconds without doing it, but. . hey... . got most of the air out, that'w what counts.

 

[ralphr]

thanks for your suggestions

in another 15K or 6 months when I change again I will try it again filling the canister with fuel! I will also recheck the fuel tank vent, and see if it is clear. I agree this should be a simple task, i. e. 10 -15 min from start to finish, but I have never gotten it right????:{

 

[diesel DOG]

Real dumb question but here goes! I need to do mine and wanted to know where it is as I looked in today in the pouring rain at and did not spot it. I have changed the oil with no problem and own 4 other diesels in Lull rough terrian fork lifts so I am a bit familiar with bleeding lines and the like. Sorry if it is dumb. Dam I love his Dodge truck and Cummins engine AND the forum. Thanks for your time

 

[SEmerson]

On the motor back drivers side. Black top.