Changing The Fuel Filter On Your Ram Ecodiesel

Changing the fuel filter on a Ram EcoDiesel is a simple process that can be done at home, although some prefer to have a dealer do it. The fuel filter is located above the drive/prop shaft in front of the rear differential. The factory drain is finicky and tends to get vapor-locked, so it's recommended to replace it with a solid brass drain plug to make the process easier and less messy. The filter should be changed every 10,000-20,000 miles, or every year to ensure no moisture gets into the system during winter. The process involves loosening the drain plug to let water and diesel out, then loosening the cap and removing the old filter. A new filter is then inserted, the cap is tightened, and the system is primed.

Drain the fuel filter

To drain the fuel filter on a Ram EcoDiesel, locate the fuel filter housing, which is above the drive/prop shaft in front of the rear differential. Place a container underneath the filter to catch any spills.

Next, find the yellow drain screw at the bottom of the filter housing. Loosen this screw with a Phillips-head screwdriver and poke it up and down to drain the fuel. You may need to jiggle the screw a few times to ensure complete drainage. Be careful not to remove the screw completely, as it has a retainer. Once you've drained the fuel, make sure to screw the drain screw back in tightly before proceeding to the next step.

If you find that the yellow drain screw is difficult to remove or doesn't drain the fuel effectively, you can replace it with an aftermarket brass drain plug, which allows for a more complete drainage of the fuel.

Use a wrench to remove the fuel filter

To remove the fuel filter on a Ram EcoDiesel, you will need to use a wrench. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

First, locate the fuel filter. The fuel filter on a Ram EcoDiesel is typically located underneath the vehicle, bolted to a frame rail. Place a drip pan or container underneath the fuel filter to catch any spilling fuel.

Next, loosen the fuel filter housing by turning it counterclockwise with a wrench. You may need to use a specialised wrench, such as a fuel filter wrench or an oil filter belt wrench, to get enough grip on the housing. Once the housing is loose, continue turning it by hand until it is removed.

At this point, you should be able to access the fuel filter inside the housing. Carefully lift it out, being mindful of any remaining fuel. If there is still fuel in the housing, you can use a small funnel to transfer it to the drip pan. Now, you can install the new fuel filter. Ensure that the rubber seal on the new filter is intact and properly seated.

Finally, replace the fuel filter housing by screwing it back on clockwise with your wrench. Tighten it securely, but be careful not to overtighten it. And that's it! You have successfully removed and replaced the fuel filter on your Ram EcoDiesel.

Prime the fuel engine

To prime the fuel engine of your Ram EcoDiesel, follow these steps:

• If your truck has a push-button start, push the start button with your foot off the brake. This will allow the truck to go into "run" mode without starting the engine. Do this a couple of times.
• If you have a keyed start truck, cycle the key to the "run" position a few times without starting the engine.
• You will hear the fuel pump running.
• Turn the truck off and then back to "run" mode.
• Repeat this process a few times before attempting to start the engine.

Replace the air conditioning filter

To replace the air conditioning filter on a Ram EcoDiesel, follow these steps:

Firstly, purchase a replacement air filter. You can find these online or at an auto parts store. Make sure to get the correct filter for your specific Ram EcoDiesel model.

Then, locate the air filter housing. This is usually found in the engine bay, often in a rectangular or square-shaped housing. Open the housing and remove the old air filter. It may be held in place by clips, screws, or other fasteners. Take note of how the old filter is positioned so you can install the new one correctly.

Next, take the new air filter and insert it into the housing, ensuring it is securely in place. Close the housing and secure any fasteners.

Finally, start the engine and turn on the air conditioning to ensure the new filter is working correctly. Check for any leaks or unusual noises.

It is recommended to replace the air filter every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. This will help ensure the air conditioning system is working efficiently and prolong its lifespan.

Dispose of the old fuel

It is important to dispose of the old fuel responsibly and safely. The fuel in your vehicle's tank is a hazardous substance that can cause harm to the environment if not disposed of properly. Here are some detailed instructions on how to dispose of the old fuel from your Ram EcoDiesel:

• Collect the drained fuel: Place a suitable container under the fuel filter to collect the drained fuel. Ensure that the container is large enough to catch all the fuel and that it is placed securely to avoid spills.
• Transport the fuel to a safe disposal location: Use a funnel to transfer the drained fuel from the container into a sealed, approved fuel storage container. Make sure you are wearing appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection.
• Locate an approved fuel disposal facility: Contact your local waste management authority or search online for a nearby facility that accepts hazardous waste, specifically used motor oil and fuel. Some facilities may have specific requirements for fuel disposal, so be sure to inquire about any special instructions.
• Dispose of the fuel properly: Transport the sealed container with the drained fuel to the disposal facility. Follow the facility's instructions for disposing of the fuel. You may be required to fill out paperwork or provide information about the type of fuel and its origin.
• Clean up: After disposing of the fuel, clean the area where you drained the fuel filter. Use absorbent materials, such as cat litter or sawdust, to soak up any fuel spills or leaks. Dispose of the absorbent materials in the same manner as the drained fuel.

Remember, it is essential to handle and dispose of fuel responsibly to protect the environment and comply with local regulations. Always follow safety guidelines and seek guidance from professionals if you are unsure about any aspect of the disposal process.

Frequently asked questions