I've got almost 20k on my '03 now, so I figure it's time for a fuel filter (maybe even past due?! ). Anyhow, has anyone seen a write-up on the procedure for the '03's, or have any tips/tricks to make it easier? This will be my first one, so any pointers would be appreciated!

 

It's no different from the '98-02 trucks. Remove the plastic cover from the filter housing (be careful, using a socket won't work, it just cracks it), remove the old filter. Insert the new filter and don't forget to use the new O-Ring. Reinstall the cover. Done.

As for when to change, you will get varying opinions as to when. I figure 15-20k is a good interval, but I always carry a spare with me in case I get one clogged up with bad fuel or something.

Rob

 

Did you say "PLASTIC" cover? Maybe I just don't know where the fuel filter is...because I could have sworn that the filter was encased in the metal canister looking thing just towards the rear of the engine on the driver's side (where you'd drain the water out). Am I wrong?

 

I haven't had mine apart yet on the '03, but on my '01 it was plastic.

And yes, that's the right place you're looking.

Rob

 

Hmmmm....I'll have to do a little research before I change that thing then. Don't want to break anything. :

 

The lid is plastic and has an indentation that looks like it could be opened by just inserting the square end of a 6" extension on a 3/8" drive ratchet. As was mentioned in an earlier post, this is an excellent way to crack your lid. You will need a 1-1/8" socket. The filter comes out with the lid, so pull the lid straight up. I open the drain valve, and wipe out any remaining crud. Snap the new filter into the lid, replace the o-ring, make sure the o-ring is lubricated with diesel and screw the lid back down. Close the drain valve and cycle the key 6 or 7 times to run the lift pump and you are finished.

 

Sounds easy enough.

 

Sure does! Thanks for the info guys!

On a related note, anyone know if the 98-02 fuel filters work on the '03? Geno's lists the same p/n, but has anyone actually tried it? I have a leftover from my '01 that I would hate to waste... ???

 

very simple. changed mine at 10,000. less than 5 minutes. I drained and cycled the key 1 time and she never missed a lick. Not sure if 1 cycle is proper procedure though ???

motor is probably no good now right?

 

I change my filter every 10k. Just remove the lid, pull the old filter out and drop in a new filter and gasket. I do not drain the filter housing. Not sure if that is a bad thing or not. Eveytime I change it is looks very clean.

 

roger that.

 

Look at my photo of the new and old fuel filter and you might be thinking 15 K is to long of a wait for the first change.


BTW don't forget to shut the drain valve it make a mess if you don't :

 

When I changed mine on the 02 they were a little black but never looked that black. Sure you did not get a bad load of fuel?

 

Changed mine out Friday. Took all of about 5 minutes, and that included finding my dang 1-1/8" socket... Anyhow, not sure what everyone else is running for fuel, but my filter looked great. Nothing even close to the picture above. Mileage was 18,498. Thanks to everyone for the tips on changing it, too!

 

[quote author=ttreibel link=board=20;threadid=19712;start=0#msg187381 date=1064168713]
Look at my photo of the new and old fuel filter and you might be thinking 15 K is to long of a wait for the first change.


BTW don't forget to shut the drain valve it make a mess if you don't :
[/quote]

That's about what mine looks like when I change it. Actually, when it's wet it looks worse than what it really is. I let mine dry for a few weeks and it's actually a light grey. Considering it's filtered approx. 800 gallons, that's not too bad.