Wht Drain Fuel Filter(s)

[masterdrago]

In my previous trucks ('03, '06, & '09 F250), I had a maintenance drain on the water separator filter. Why does my new 3500 have a drain on both water separator and engine mounted filters? When doing monthly, should I only be draining water off the frame mounted?

 

[AaronOregon]

For draining the fuel to change them out.

 

[spoon059]

Check your manual for specifics... but I haven't drained either of mine except to change the filters. There is a "water in fuel" sensor that could illuminate requiring that you immediately pull over and drain them.

 

[Cummins12V98]

In over 400K driving Cummins powered trucks I have never drained my filters except for changing them. Oh I did have WIF ONCE and drained out a small amount of water.

 

[masterdrago]

Thanks. On all my Fords, it was a monthly thing. I always drained a bit of fuel and sometimes a small amount of water between filter changes. The frame mounted filter was just under the drivers door, easy to access and a simple plug or lever to turn. Was just curious about why the engine mounted drain. The Ford did not have that.

 

[grabinov]

I changed both of mine yesterday, and, on a drain-related note: The "drain" on the frame-mounted filter seems to only release about half of the fuel from the filter. The rest runs out when you get the filter off, or down to about the last 2 threads. Luckily, If you wear a soft cotton sweatshirt, you'll be able to absorb the remainder before it gets onto your pavers.

I think next time I'm going to remove the filter with the WIF sensor still attached and see if that helps - or is that how you're supposed to do it!

 

[Jared Herzog]

I open my drain on the rear. When fuel slows i close the drain. Then i break the seal on the filter base. Then again open the drain and let the remainder if the fuel drain as air enters the filter through the now broken seal. I remove the filter with WIF sensor still attached. I have never spilled a drop this way. I open the drain into a gatorade bottle.