Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Fuel Filter

[Black Cloud]

Heres a simple one for you. I tried to change my fuel filter today on my '00 but I could not twist open the cover. What is used for this? Is it just a big socket?

 

[WadePatton]

Yep, find a socket that fits. It'll be tight as the cat's butt the first time.



DO NOT use a 1/2 drive extension in the square center. This usually cracks the cap.

 

[Black Cloud]

Thank you sir and have a woderful evening!

 

[Thomas]

TSB 14-02-00

 

[Black Cloud]

Alright now I can find the right size hex head. I do not have one that big but I will buy one and keep it under the rear seat for future endeavors. Thanks again!

 

[Loren]

Turbodiesel_ram,



More information:



Dodge recommends a six-point socket rather than a 12-point. It takes a 1-1/8" socket.



As Wade said DO NOT use the 1/2" hole in the middle. I have filled that hole with RTV so no one else can either.



The filter will come out with the lid. It's held on by plastic clips. Don't break any when removing the filter from the lid.



Drain the canister when removing the filter or you could contaminate the new filter when installing it. To make starting easier, you can add new, clean fuel to the canister before inserting the new filter.



Change the o-ring and lube it with diesel fuel before installing.



Torque for the filter canister lid is 25 ft-lbs (from the 2000 service manual).



Crank the engine briefly and let the pump run for a while after the starter is disengaged. Don't expect it to start right away. Repeat this step as many times as required to prime the injection pump. The truck will run rough for a while after it starts. This is all normal. It will settle down after 30 seconds or so.



DO NOT crank the engine for more than 30 seconds or so without a delay for cooling. I know there is a starter duty cycle, but I can't find the actual numbers right now. Just be sure you don't overheat your starter.



If you are on these forums, you probably already know most of this, but others may not.



Loren

 

[Black Cloud]

Just changed the filter, with the right socket, and everything went smooth. The engine fired right up, again thanks for the info and hopefully someone else will benefit from the topic in the future.



James