Task: Fuel Filter Change:
Type: Routine Maintenance
Suggested Interval: <15,001 Miles
Changing the fuel filter is one of the easiest things you can do. Inversely, it is also one of the few things that can have a huge detrimental effect on your engine if left neglected. And here is why; diesel is dirty. No I'm not talking about what come out your tail pipe, I'm talking about what is in your tank. Ever looked in a diesel fuel tank? It looks like a sand box. American diesel fuel is notoriously dirty compared to gasoline and diesel sold in other countries. This also varies state by state, although not as much.
There are a few components to be aware of when doing the fuel filter maintenance.
- Fuel bowl (aka "filter housing"): This is the cylindrical housing on top of your motor that sits in the middle of your engine. This is the heart of the operation.
- Filter Element: This is the one and only fuel filter on the 7.3L diesel. There is also a screen in the fuel tank, do not get this confused, it is often called a filter, but it is a poor excuse for one. The fuel filter comes in two designs, integral-lid and independent filter. The integral design comes with a filter and lid attached as one unit, they may also come as a 2 piece kit, with a lid and screen combo with a separate filter element. These are aftermarket units and are generally acceptable. The independent filter design comes as a screen and filter as one unit and you reuse your existing lid unless it has a screen from the integral design. This set up is most commonly OEM, but there may be aftermarket variations. I recommend Motorcraft filters for the 7.3L. Regardless of which type you get, all the components will be there, just set up slightly different.
- O-Rings: There are two of them, don't loose them. One is unidirectional, make sure it is applied properly.
- Fuel Drain Valve: This valve located on the rear of the fuel bowl allows you to drain the fuel in the bowl before starting the change procedure.
- Fuel Bowl Heater: This is the little device chillin in the bottom of the fuel bowl (no pun intended). When you are preforming this service, visually inspect for damage.
This video was truly one of a kind! I'm looking to change my fuel filter. It's never been changed and definitely needs to be maintained. How are diesel fuel filters different than your regular car?
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Great video! Thanks!!
ReplyDeleteIs there a way or recommendation for cleaning the fuel bowl. Seems to have dirt or debris. Can it be flushed or cleaning solvent used to remove debris?
ReplyDeleteYou can clean it out with any basic cleaner, as long as it's properly washed and dried before put back in service.
DeleteWhat's the point of draining fuel bowl before changing,is it so you can inspect inside of housing. It's so easy to change without draining. Just wondering?
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My 1997 f-250 super duty 7.3 only has 184.500 miles...it starts, purrs and runs like new, but i only get about 12 mpg. All new tanks, oil change and filter, new fuel filter maint. Etc... So I am at a loss for WHY ? Does ANYONE know why or have a clue ? Please help. I keep hearing people saying they get twice as many mpg on same engine/trucks w/twice as many miles and can't know how when i see what i get and it's been babied like new and all parts associated new, or like new .
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