How often do you replace your diesel fuel filters?

[jcschultz01]

2018 Ran 3500 fuel filter gauge

We own a 2018 Ram 2500 CTD and I've got a question about how often should I change the two fuel filters? This is my first diesel truck (purchased new Feb 2019) and we only have just over 27K miles on it. That equates to less to less than 7K per year. So I've been changing the two fuel filters when I change the oil and oil filter, which is about once a year or 7k miles. Oddly enough the truck is telling me the oil and filter is only like 50% used up, but I do it anyway. I'm wondering if I can go longer with the fuel filters, since they are PITA to change out, especially the one in rear of the truck. I'd like to shoot the engineer that decided that is was a good idea to place the filter dead center and directly above the drive shaft, so when you try to remove, you invariably spill some fuel, it hits the drive shaft and goes everywhere!

Thanks

My 2018 Ram 3500 has a gauge that tells me when the fuel filter needs changing. NEVER the same time as the oil filter :-(

I never let it get to " empty" but I'm ok with that

 

[more tired since retired]

I change out fuel filters every other oil change. I have a 2020 F-250 w/6.7L diesel and also use the drain port on the first filter to make sure there is no water in the fuel. I don't want to get a water in fuel light since by that time, you may have already caused issues with the high pressure fuel system. Any rust in the system can mean a new $12-15K fuel system. The time to drain6-8oz of fuel into a bottle is a lot less than problems with the fuel system.

 

[randk88]

I believe it is recommended every 12,000 miles.

 

[marine6805]

The owners manual calls for 15K miles on those filters. I am on my second CTD 6.7 RAM and have always changed those filters with every other oil change (7.5K miles). The same book suggests that the engine can go as far as 15K miles on the oil, but that subject is left up to the user/owner.

 

[Gronk1]

I change oil every 5,000 fuel filters every other oil change. Waited for the idiot light once for an oil change...7500 miles. Drove me nuts, went back to 5k. I use the same fuel station when home, & only high volume stations when on the road. Less chance of water contamination.
If storing for a while, I will fill it up for reasons previously stated. But will take it out every 3-4 weeks.

 

[Summit1]

Despite the votes, follow the recommendations in the owner manual, specifically Diesel Supplement; both can be downloaded in PDF (making them searchable and printable). The dealership told me to "follow the computer and the manual" but never exceed one year between fuel filter (and oil & filter) changes.

For that rear filter (which also serves as a water separator), place a clear/soft (1/2") plastic tube on the drain valve, and then drain the filter as completely as possible into a large drain pan. Then, disconnect the wire harness to the sensor, loosen the sensor with a sensor wrench (Lisle 34900 Water Sensor Wrench (OEM Version) ) of the correct size... slightly more fuel will drain, both down the tubing and from the sensor threads. Use a large (I used a Performance Tool Adjustable Filter Plier - W54312) filter wrench and loosen the filter. When installing the new filter, install the sensor first, and then apply a thin layer of oil to the gasket (much like you would a motor oil filter). Install the filter "hand tight" and re-connect the sensor wire harness connector. Be certain the drain valve is closed. The wrench I sued was made by

Of course, the front fuel filter on the engine should also be replaced. A 28-MM socket, a couple of extensions, and a ratchet will be needed. Be careful to ensure the socket is on straight, or you may damage the canister cap. Note there is also a drain on the bottom of the canister with a yellow valve. Plastic (5/8") tubing can (and should) be used on this drain as well. Once drained, and lid is removed pull the old cartridge up and out (it may be a bit "snug"). The new filter should include a gasket... install that and do not re-use the old one. Re-install the cap and do not overtighten it. Prime the fuel system and it is good to go. There are a couple of online videos that explain this procedure; some are even watchable .

One more thing... you should not need to raise the vehicle, but you should wear old clothes or a coverall... and wear gloves and safety glasses.

 

[JessJoe4168]

We own a 2018 Ram 2500 CTD and I've got a question about how often should I change the two fuel filters? This is my first diesel truck (purchased new Feb 2019) and we only have just over 27K miles on it. That equates to less to less than 7K per year. So I've been changing the two fuel filters when I change the oil and oil filter, which is about once a year or 7k miles. Oddly enough the truck is telling me the oil and filter is only like 50% used up, but I do it anyway. I'm wondering if I can go longer with the fuel filters, since they are PITA to change out, especially the one in rear of the truck. I'd like to shoot the engineer that decided that is was a good idea to place the filter dead center and directly above the drive shaft, so when you try to remove, you invariably spill some fuel, it hits the drive shaft and goes everywhere!

Thanks

I change when the indicator shows 10-15%. That is about 10K mi. I use Fleetguard (owned by Cummins) filters to protect the sensitive aka expensive injection components.
I also add Diesel Kleen (by Power Service) - about 6 oz. when filling every other time. This was the only fuel injection cleaner recommended by Cummins a few years ago.

 

[scottmtaylor]

I have a great mechanic and have discussed this issue with him. He says not to exceed what the dash computer recommends, but that it greatly depends on where you drive. If you are mostly in CA say, then changing the filters is not a priority prior to the manufacturer's interval. Apparently, it is the older cast iron tanks that corrode and create deposits in the fuel. In CA, the regulations are so tight (and the fuel prices reflect this) that there are no 'old' tanks - they have all been replaced.

I replaced my filters at 10k, and they looked brand new. Mostly driving in CA, AZ, UT and CO. He also says the front filter can go much longer than the rear filter. The filters for my 2020 are pretty expensive, so I go with his guidance.

 

[kscaddo]

Despite the votes, follow the recommendations in the owner manual, specifically Diesel Supplement; both can be downloaded in PDF (making them searchable and printable). The dealership told me to "follow the computer and the manual" but never exceed one year between fuel filter (and oil & filter) changes.

For that rear filter (which also serves as a water separator), place a clear/soft (1/2") plastic tube on the drain valve, and then drain the filter as completely as possible into a large drain pan. Then, disconnect the wire harness to the sensor, loosen the sensor with a sensor wrench (Lisle 34900 Water Sensor Wrench (OEM Version) ) of the correct size... slightly more fuel will drain, both down the tubing and from the sensor threads. Use a large (I used a Performance Tool Adjustable Filter Plier - W54312) filter wrench and loosen the filter. When installing the new filter, install the sensor first, and then apply a thin layer of oil to the gasket (much like you would a motor oil filter). Install the filter "hand tight" and re-connect the sensor wire harness connector. Be certain the drain valve is closed. The wrench I sued was made by

Of course, the front fuel filter on the engine should also be replaced. A 28-MM socket, a couple of extensions, and a ratchet will be needed. Be careful to ensure the socket is on straight, or you may damage the canister cap. Note there is also a drain on the bottom of the canister with a yellow valve. Plastic (5/8") tubing can (and should) be used on this drain as well. Once drained, and lid is removed pull the old cartridge up and out (it may be a bit "snug"). The new filter should include a gasket... install that and do not re-use the old one. Re-install the cap and do not overtighten it. Prime the fuel system and it is good to go. There are a couple of online videos that explain this procedure; some are even watchable .

One more thing... you should not need to raise the vehicle, but you should wear old clothes or a coverall... and wear gloves and safety glasses.

Good reply! Incidentally, the cap for the front filter calls for a 20 ft. lb. torque setting.

 

[Maximus216]

I never wait for a computer to tell me when to change a filter. 20k on gas filters and 7k on oil changes.