How to Change a Diesel Fuel Filter

Diesel engines use a less refined source of fuel to generate power. Diesel fuel has less of the contaminants removed that can build up over time. The job of the diesel fuel filter is to remove solid particles and contaminating materials that will become lodged inside moving parts and create engine wear and damage. A diesel fuel filter is larger than most gasoline engine filters because it has more materials to filter out. Located in the fuel line system, change a diesel fuel filter to remove all the old fuel dirt and get more filtration out of the diesel fuel that is being burned.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Diesel Fuel Filter Wrenches Rags Screwdriver

1. Open the engine bay of a diesel burning engine to expose the fuel delivery system and hosing. A diesel fuel filter can be located anywhere from near the intake manifold all the way back to the gas tank(s). The fuel filter on a diesel motor is rectangular and has a tube leading in one end and out the other. It may be secured to a mounting bracket, or held in pace with a filter retaining strap.

2. Each end of the filter has a hose. On the end of each hose is a fitting that secures the hose to the filter. Use a wrench or screwdriver to loosen the fittings from around the diesel fuel filter. Have a rag handy to place under the hose and filter when removing each hose end from the filter. Extra diesel fuel will pour from each end as they are removed and should be caught with a rag or container when it happens.

3. Discard the old fuel filter in an appropriate location. Recycled products can be returned to the auto parts store for proper disposal. The old diesel fuel filter has contaminants that can affect the environment and laws are enforced regarding the improper disposal of these types of products. Always check with local rules on disposal of hazardous materials and follow these guidelines.

4. Secure the filter into the mounting bracket or retaining strap before securing both inlet and outlet ports of the diesel fuel filter into the fuel system. Use a wrench or screwdriver to tighten the fittings that secure each hose end onto the fuel filter. Clean the surrounding engine or fuel system parts from any remaining diesel fuel or oil that has been built up over time.

5. Close the hood of the engine compartment. Before attempting to start the diesel engine with a new fuel filter installed it is important to refill the fuel lines with fuel. A good way to do this is to press the accelerator pedal prior to starting the engine. be sure to avoid internal parts damage by turning over an engine for too long without fuel being present to start.

Tips & Warnings

• Use tape to cover the ends of the fuel line during the installation of a new diesel fuel filter to avoid spilling fuel during the exchange. Fill the fuel filter with diesel fuel prior to connecting to the fuel lines. This helps to avoid air in the fuel system when starting the engine after a fuel filter change.
• Do not smoke during the replacement of a diesel fuel filter. Keep all fuels away from heat or flame to prevent fires or explosions from fume build up. Work in a well ventilated area to avoid inhalation dangers from flammable fuels.

Resources

• Diesel Fuel Problems Explained