How Often to Change Fuel Filters in a Dodge Ram

The fuel system in your Dodge Ram truck is a series of hoses, filters and a pump. Fuel is pumped from the gas tank through a hose and into a fuel filter before entering the combustion chamber. It is important to change the fuel filter every 15,000 miles to ensure that clogs are not forming and that the fuel system is functioning properly.

Function

The fuel filter is responsible for removing impurities from the fuel before it is used in the motor. Rust, metal, sediments and debris are removed from the fuel and trapped inside the fibers of the filter.

Types

The year of the truck determines the location of the fuel filter. Older Dodge Ram trucks use a fuel filter that is located inside the fuel tank and attached to the fuel-sending unit and regulator. Newer Dodge trucks have the filter inline, underneath the body of the truck attached to the frame. Diesel trucks have the fuel filter in the engine bay of the vehicle attached to the firewall.

Effects

A dirty fuel filter can result in lost fuel economy, poor acceleration and engine stutters due to lack of fuel. Replacing the fuel filter every 15,000 miles will help keep the motor clean of debris and running with the most efficiency.

Types of filters

Filters come in a variety of grades called microns. The more microns a filter has, the more debris can be filtered out of the fuel; 5 to 7 micron filters are recommended for use in most Dodge trucks that are not heavily modified.

Installation

Most of the newer trucks allow for easy installation and replacement of the fuel filter. The filter will be contained in a housing with a screw-top lid or screw-off bottom. Unscrew the top of the housing by hand and the filter will slide out of the housing. The bottom screw-off housing will use an Allen-wrench fitting to unscrew and drop down. Replace the filter and reinsert the housing and filter.

References

• Dodge Filter Placement
• Filter Replacement