Fuel Filter change instructions for all the newbies (with pics)
 

Hi, all I just did my fuel filter change and thought I would take some pictures and write down some instructions for all the newbies needing advice for a fuel filter change on a 3rd gen. Thought maybe it could be a sticky [redface]

To start off, here are the easy instructions:

Fuel filter change procedure.

1) turn the yellow water seperator valve and let everything drain out. (i like to extend the hose to reach bucket for less mess)

2) get 1 1/8" socket and unscrew the filter lid, this will also help drain fuel out faster

3) take out old filter AND o-ring

4) wipe out the inside if necassary (but you shouldnt need to do it, unless there is a ton of gunk in there, IMO risk for getting lint in the container)

5) stick on new filter AND o-ring

6) lube the o-ring

7) stick it back in the canister

8) turn the seperator valve back to normal

9) twist the fuel filter cab back on snug (or i believe to 24 Ft Lbs)

10) turn the key a couple times (bump start the engine this get the pump goin longer)

11) and start that sucker up, easy as pie

Now for my pictures:
Fresh fuel filter
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v7...rchange001.jpg

Hose extension to catch fuel in clear bottle
Attachment 73632

Turn the yellow drain valve, and unscrew lid
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v7...rchange002.jpg

Take out old filter and O-ring
Attachment 73633

Put on new filter
Attachment 73634

Lube new O-ring
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v7...rchange005.jpg

Drop assembly into canister (after checking for debri on inside of canister)
Attachment 73635

Close the drain valve
Attachment 73636

Torque lid to 24 Ft. Lbs.
Attachment 73645

Check to see any water seperation at the end
Attachment 73646

bump start the engine a couple times and start er up.
Check for leaks and listen to her purr
VID:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v7...rchange012.jpg

Thanks,
It makes it easier for guys like me that are new to Cummins and Dodges.

Glad it will help you out. I would like to get stuff like this posted for all the regular maintenance items... oil change, front and rear (i should of taken pictures last saturday), tranny, transfer case ect ect....

Great post Horsehauler[guitar] Very detailed pictures. Wish we had the post up here when I went to do my first fuel filter on the cummins.

Thanks, if anyone gets a chance to take some pictures on their next oil change and things like that, please do so

Thanks! Good post.

How often are you supposed to change your fuel filter? Does that frequency change if I run bio diesel?

Thanks

It is supposed to be changed every 10,000 miles. Not sure what the effect with bio diesel is. I am pretty sure you are supposed to change it before running bio diesel. If it were me I would still change it every 10,000 miles. $10.00 and 5 minutes keeps piece of mind

Good idea HorseHauler. I'm planning on doing front and rear diffs, transfer case and NV5600 this weekend (just spent $140 in fluids). I'll try to remember to get the camera out there.

Bio acts as a solvent and will loosen up any gunk that's built up in your tank and lines so you'll probably need to change it shortly after starting to run bio. You may have to do 2 or 3 changes at shortened intervals. This is just what I've read, maybe somebody who has experience running bio will chime in.

What do you lube the o-ring with? Thanks for the great pics!

I just simply pull the engine oil dip stick out and rub a little on the o-ring with my finger. doesn't need much

Nice post. Very Helpfull.

If you get the transfer case pics that would sure help me out, I don't even know where to start for that. I was gonna let the dealer do that one, but if it is easy, then I will do it myself.

Many thanks to Horse Hauler, I will be going through this in a week or two. Good point about the possibility of getting lint in the canister from wiping it out. You could blast it out with an aerosol product like brake cleaner, and for some strange reason napkins from most fast food restaurants are lint free.