The Ultimate Guide To Changing Your 97 Cummins Fuel Filter

Changing the fuel filter on a 1997 12v Cummins engine is a relatively straightforward process. The first step is to drain the fuel from the canister. Next, the canister bottom is removed, providing access to the old filter. The new filter can then be inserted, and the canister refilled with clean fuel. It is important to note that the o-rings should be replaced and lubricated before reassembling the canister. Additionally, the water-in-fuel (WIF) sensor wiring connector should be disconnected and reconnected during the process. Finally, the fuel system will need to be bled to remove any air. This can be done by briefly turning the ignition to start and then back to run, allowing the electric lift pump to run for around 20 seconds.

Drain fuel from the canister

To drain fuel from the canister of a 97 Cummins fuel filter, first lean over the fender in a position that looks like you're hugging the brake master cylinder. Unclip the WIF (water in fuel) wire from the wire harness. Place a small drip pan under the filter to collect the fuel. Drain a small amount of fuel by unscrewing the WIF sensor. Close the WIF sensor, then unscrew the filter and rest it down in the space between the frame and motor mount. Reposition the filter and sneak it through the wires to remove it.

Disconnect the WIF wire

Disconnecting the WIF (Water in Fuel) wire is a crucial step when changing the fuel filter on a 1997 Cummins engine. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Begin by locating the WIF wire. It is usually clipped to the wire harness near the fuel filter housing. You will need to lean over the fender, hugging the brake master cylinder, to access it easily. Once you have located the WIF wire, carefully unclip it from the wire harness. It is important to be gentle during this step to avoid damaging the connector or surrounding components.

After unclipping the WIF wire, you will need to prepare for draining the fuel. Place a small drip pan or container under the fuel filter to catch any spills. You will only need to drain a small amount of fuel to prevent spills when removing the filter. To do this, unscrew the WIF sensor, which is located near the fuel filter. Remember to close the sensor back up once you have drained enough fuel.

Now that the WIF wire is disconnected and the fuel is drained, you can proceed to remove the old fuel filter. This will involve unscrewing the filter and carefully manoeuvring it out through the wires. Be cautious during this step to avoid any spills. It is recommended to rest the old filter in a safe location, such as between the frame and motor mount, before repositioning your hands and fully removing it.

At this point, you can also inspect the WIF sensor and gasket. If they appear worn or damaged, it is a good idea to replace them. Additionally, you may need to install a new gasket in the filter housing to ensure a proper seal.

Once you have completed the fuel filter change, you will need to reconnect the WIF wire to the wire harness. Simply clip it back into place, ensuring it is secure. After this, your Cummins engine should be ready to start up again, and you can dispose of any drained fuel and old filter components appropriately.

By following these detailed steps, you can successfully disconnect and reconnect the WIF wire when changing the fuel filter on a 1997 Cummins engine.

Unscrew the WIF sensor

To "Unscrew the WIF sensor", first lean over the fender in a position that looks like you're hugging the brake master cylinder. Unclip the WIF (water in fuel) wire from the wire harness. Hold a small drip pan under the filter to catch any fuel. Drain a small amount of fuel by unscrewing the WIF sensor.

To remove the WIF sensor, you will need to cut and splice the existing wire leads to the sensor. You can then close the WIF sensor back up.

Remove the filter

To remove the filter from your 1997 Cummins fuel filter, follow these steps:

First, lean over the fender as if you're hugging the brake master cylinder. Unclip the Water in Fuel (WIF) wire from the wire harness. Place a small drip pan under the filter to catch any spills. Drain a small amount of fuel by unscrewing the WIF sensor—just enough so that when you twist the filter, fuel doesn't spill everywhere. Close the WIF sensor.

Next, unscrew the filter and rest it down in the space between the frame and motor mount. Reposition your hands and carefully sneak the filter through the wires to remove it.

Now, change over the WIF sensor and gasket, and put a new gasket in the filter housing.

Note that you can also wash out any trash from the 'bowl' of the filter housing. Make sure to hold the bottom of the filter housing when removing it, otherwise residual fuel will spill.

The filter can be tricky to remove, so be careful to align the bottom housing with the top housing and replace the nut. Tighten the nut to 15-20 ft-lbs.

Finally, connect the drain tube and WIF sensor harness.

Install a new filter and gasket

Now that you've drained the fuel from the canister, removed the canister bottom, and taken out the old filter, it's time to install a new filter and gasket.

First, take the new filter and insert it into the canister. Ensure that you note the location of the O-rings, as mentioned earlier, and install new O-rings if necessary. Lubricate the O-rings before installing them; you can simply dip them in diesel fuel.

Next, you'll want to install the new gasket. Place the new gasket in the filter housing, ensuring it is seated correctly and securely.

Now, align the bottom housing with the top housing. Use a wrench to tighten the nut that connects the two housings securely. Be careful not to over-tighten, as this can damage the gasket and cause leaks.

Once the canister is reassembled, you can reattach it to the engine. Ensure that the canister is securely mounted before proceeding.

With the new filter and gasket installed, you are now ready to refill the canister with clean fuel and proceed to the next steps of bleeding air from the system and priming the filter.

Frequently asked questions