Replacing The Fuel Filter On A 1991 E350 Diesel

Changing the fuel filter on a 1991 E350 diesel is a relatively simple task that can be done at home with basic hand tools. The fuel filter is located inside the frame rail directly below the driver's side door. Before starting, it is important to release the fuel line pressure by removing the gas cap to prevent the fuel lines from spraying fuel when the filter is removed. A drainage pan should be placed below the fuel filter to catch any excess fuel that may leak out during the replacement process. The fuel lines can then be disconnected from the filter, and the filter can be removed from the clamp. A new filter can be installed by sliding it into the clamp and securing it with a screwdriver. Finally, the fuel lines can be reconnected to the new filter.

Locating the fuel filter

To locate the fuel filter on your 1991 E350 diesel, you'll need to look in a few places.

Firstly, check inside the frame rail directly below the driver's side door. The fuel filter is located here, approximately 1-2 feet behind the driver's seat.

There is also a secondary fuel filter that sits on the engine, between the CAC tube and the air intake tube. This will be covered by a small lid, which you can remove to access the filter.

In some models, there is a third fuel filter located at the top of the engine, underneath a black, round, plastic cover. This is held in place with two nuts.

Finally, if your E350 has a 6.0L Powerstroke engine, the primary fuel filter is located under the driver's side door, on the frame rail.

Draining the fuel filter

To drain the fuel filter of a 1991 E350 diesel, you will need to place a bucket or tub beneath the fuel pump, which is located under the driver's door on the frame rail.

Next, locate the allen plug on the side of the fuel pump. Using a 6mm allen wrench, remove the allen plug. With the bucket in place, drain the fuel and water completely.

Now, using a 36mm socket, remove the large black end cap, which is nearer to the engine. Note that the fuel filter will slide out with the cap. Pull the old filter and the o-ring from the cap and dispose of them appropriately.

Once the filter is drained, it can be placed in a lidded coffee can or leak-proof plastic bag and taken to a recycling centre that accepts scrap metal.

• Before starting, release the fuel line pressure by removing the gas cap. This will prevent fuel from spraying onto you when you remove the filter.
• Place a drainage pan under the fuel filter to catch any excess fuel that leaks out while you work.
• To remove the fuel line from the fuel filter, use a small flathead screwdriver to pry open the release tab on the retaining clamps.
• When installing the new fuel filter, ensure the arrow on the filter is facing the front of the engine.
• After installing the new filter, remember to prime the fuel system by turning the ignition to the Run position three times for 30 seconds each. This is critical to prevent damage to the injectors.

Removing the fuel filter

To remove the fuel filter from your 1991 E350 diesel, follow these steps:

First, remove the gas cap from the E-350 to release fuel line pressure. This is a crucial step to prevent the fuel lines from spraying fuel when you remove the filter. Place a drainage pan below the fuel filter to catch any excess fuel that may leak out during the process.

Next, locate the fuel filter inside the frame rail directly below the driver's side door. You will need a small flathead screwdriver to pry open the release tab located on one of the retaining clamps that secure the fuel line to the fuel filter. Complete this step for both clamps on either end of the fuel filter.

After that, remove the screw from the filter clamp that secures the casing of the filter to the frame rail using a flat-head screwdriver. Now, carefully slide the fuel filter out of the clamp. The arrow on the filter must face the front of the engine when installed.

Finally, tighten the new filter casing to the frame rail by screwing in the flat-head screw. Slide the fuel lines onto each end of the new filter and lock them in place by pushing down on the locking tabs. Ensure that the arrow on the new filter is facing the front of the engine.

By following these steps, you will be able to successfully remove and replace the fuel filter in your 1991 E350 diesel.

Installing the new fuel filter

To install the new fuel filter, follow these steps:

Place a bucket or tub beneath the fuel pump to catch any excess fuel that may leak out during the replacement process.

Use a small flathead screwdriver to pry open the release tab located on one of the retaining clamps that secure the fuel line to the fuel filter. Do the same for the clamp on the other end of the fuel filter.

Remove the screw from the filter clamp that secures the casing of the filter to the frame rail using a flat-head screwdriver.

Slide out the old fuel filter from the clamp. Take note of the arrow on one end of the filter, which must face the front of the engine when installing the new filter.

Insert the new fuel filter into the clamp, ensuring the arrow is facing the correct direction. Tighten the filter casing to the frame rail by tightening the flat-head screw.

Slide the fuel lines back onto each end of the new filter and lock them in place by pushing down on the locking tabs.

To prime the fuel system and bleed out any air, turn the ignition to the "Run" position three separate times for 30 seconds each.

Failure to properly prime the fuel system can cause serious damage to the injectors, so make sure not to skip this final step.

Priming the fuel system

To prime the fuel system of your 1991 E350 diesel, you need to ensure that the fuel filter is replaced and the fuel delivery system is functioning correctly. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Remove the Gas Cap

Remove the gas cap from your E-350 to release fuel line pressure. This is a crucial step to prevent the fuel lines from spraying fuel onto you when you access the fuel filter.

Step 2: Locate and Drain the Fuel Filter

The fuel filter is located inside the frame rail directly below the driver's side door. Place a drainage pan below the fuel filter to catch any excess fuel that may leak out during the process.

Step 3: Disconnect the Fuel Lines

Use a small flathead screwdriver to pry open the release tab on the retaining clamps that secure the fuel lines to the fuel filter. Complete this step for both ends of the fuel filter.

Step 4: Remove the Fuel Filter

Loosen the screw on the filter clamp that secures the casing of the filter to the frame rail using a flat-head screwdriver.

Step 5: Install the New Fuel Filter

Slide out the old fuel filter and replace it with the new one, ensuring that the arrow on the new filter faces the front of the engine. Tighten the filter casing to the frame rail by securing the screw.

Step 6: Reconnect the Fuel Lines

Slide the fuel lines back onto each end of the new fuel filter. Lock the lines in place by pushing down on the locking tabs that you previously pried open.

Step 7: Bleed Air from the Injector Pump

If your vehicle is not starting and fuel is not reaching the injectors, you may need to bleed air from the injector pump. You can do this by opening the fuel line at the injectors and cranking the engine. If this does not work, check the fuel shut-off solenoid (FSS) and ensure it is getting power when the key is turned on.

By following these steps, you will have successfully primed the fuel system of your 1991 E350 diesel, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of your engine.

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