Just changed the fuel filter with only 5700 miles on it and it was pretty darn dirty. Just a heads up for you new truck owners. It might not take as long as they say to get dirty.

 

I changed my filter at 7k miles, one year from the build date. And it was pretty filthy. I'm on the 10k mile/1 yr schedule for the fuel filter. Really glad the filter is easy to change on the Cummins, I feel sorry for the Duramax owners, filter changes is a PITA.

MikeyB

 

It's not uncommon for them to come out black. It doesn't necessarily mean they're loaded up. Next time take it out and leave it in the sun to dry out. You'll find it will lighten dramatically as the oil evaporates from it. You're right though, they're cake to change.

 

I know this is prob old to you guys but I am new to this diesel thing and didn't get any books with mine. What is the best way to change the fuel filter and with what kind? Mine has over 70,000 and have no idea when it was changed. Any links would be helpful. Thanks for putting up with the newbees.

 

I also need tips on a filter change.

 

Do you know where the filter is? If not it is by the Brake master cylinder it is a round housing on it with a black lid. Mine looks like a a big nut on top of it. It takes about a 1-1/16" Dia. socket that is what I use with a ratchet to loosen it up. It seems kinda tight when unscrewing it. Once it is loose you got to wiggle it to get it out, Filter will come out with the lid.

1. First thing you do is get the old O-ring off the lid. Be sure to Coat the new O-Ring with Diesel that is in the housing.

2. Drain the Filter Housing by flipping the Yellow Lever on the Housing. That will get rid of anything in there if there is anything.

3. Put new filter on the lid insert it in the housing kinda push down while screwing the lid on and, it will start on the threads.

4. Once tighten up DON"T OVERTIGHTEN IT. Go cycle your key about 5 to 10 times and it will fillup the housing.

5. Crank it up and check for leaks.

6. Drive it and Smile, Pat urself on the back and say JOB WELL DONE.

 

Step A should be
Purchase new filter from Cummins/internet vendor for around $14 instead of $47 from dealer.
same filter BTW

 

I have found, as have most, that Genos is the best place to get all your filters.

As far as it being dirty. All the factory filters give you the appearance of being dirty. It is simply the filtering material turning that very dark color from emerssion in fuel oil.

Unless you got some really bad fuel somewhere it probably wasn't as bad as you thought. I seldom change mine before 20K miles and have never had a problem after over a million miles on my CTD's over the years.

I do open the drain about ever 5K for one second to allow any accumulated water to dribble out. Otherwise a fuel filter is good to go for a good while.

 

The filter lid takes a 1 1/8" socket. It's important to use a 6 point socket so you won't put too great a load on the plastic corners of the square stud.

Ain't that the truth!

 

Thanks alot guys. Will do as told. Just talked to Andy at Geno Garage and he is sending me filters FS19579 and they are $11.95 + shipping.

 

I also now get my fuel filters from Genos. If you are ever in a pinch, you can get one at Napa for appx. $13.00. I bought all of mine for my Gen II at Napa and never had a problem. I am a quick learner. I only bought one from the dealer @ $46.00.

 

Yea I also am quick when looking around town for an air cleaner had to go to dealer because mine was totalllllly black when I picked up the truck! dealer $45.00

 

My son uses them. They're actually re-boxed/re-labeled Fleetguards. The logo is clearly stamped into the black base.

 

As I remember it, air filters at Genos are around $25. I try and never buy anything from the dealer if I can help it. Genos has everything. Also, Genos filters are MOPAR's.

 

I thought that was the case but it has been a while since I used a Napa filter and didn't want to post that it is a reboxed Fleetguard without knowing for sure. Thanks for the heads-up.