How to Replace a Fuel Filter on a Dodge Cummins Diesel

Cummins diesel engines power everything from stationary generators to large over-the-road semi trucks. Cummins diesel engines have been used in Dodge heavy duty pickup trucks since 1989 and have become quite popular for towing heavy loads. The Cummins diesel engine installed in Dodge pickups is an in-line 6-cylinder unit ranging in size from 5.9 to 6.7 liters. A clean fuel supply is crucial to a Cummins diesel engine; this is achieved by replacing the fuel filter often.

Things You'll Need

• 1 1/8-inch 6-point socket
• ½-inch drive ratchet wrench
• Drain pan
• Extension hose

Instructions

1. Place a drain pan under the drain pipe located on the fuel filter housing. Drain the fuel from the fuel filter housing by turning the drain valve petcock in a counterclockwise movement.

2. Return the drain petcock to the closed position once all of the fuel has drained from the fuel filter housing.

3. Remove the fuel filter housing lid by twisting it off in a counterclockwise motion using a ½-inch drive ratchet wrench with a 1 1/8-inch socket attached.

4. Remove and dispose of the "O" ring on the lid. Remove the filter from the fuel filter housing by rotating the filter while lifting it out of the housing.

5. Install the new fuel filter by pushing it into the fuel filter housing gently. Install the new "O" ring that came with the new filter onto the fuel filter housing lid.

6. Lubricate the "O" ring with diesel fuel and thread the lid back onto the housing. Do not over tighten the lid or you will damage the threads.

7. Turn the ignition key to the "on" position and wait a few seconds while the fuel filter housing fills with diesel fuel.

8. Start the engine and allow it to run a few minutes. Check for leaks. If a leak is detected shut the engine off and check the drain petcock and the fuel filter housing lid. Tighten as necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Dispose of used diesel fuel properly. Pour the fuel into a leak proof container and take it to a recycling facility. The fuel filter is snapped into the fuel filter housing. To keep from getting sprayed with diesel fuel when it pops out, cover the filter with a plastic bag before removing it. Avoid fuel spills by installing an extension hose to the drain pipe on the fuel filter housing. Make sure the hose long enough to reach your drain pan.

References

• Cummins fuel filter replacement
• Dodge Ram fuel filter installation