Changing Fuel Filters: Peterbilt 579 Maintenance Guide

Changing the fuel filter on a Peterbilt 579 is a straightforward process that can be done at home with the right tools and parts. Peterbilt 579 owners can choose from a variety of fuel filters available on the market, including those from brands like Carquest Premium, Fram, and Fleetguard. These fuel filters are designed to meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications and ensure that the fuel injection system is free of both particulate and water contamination, keeping the engine running at maximum efficiency. The cost of fuel filters for the Peterbilt 579 starts at around $89.99, and they can be purchased online or from local auto parts stores.

Peterbilt 579 fuel filter products

Carquest Premium

Carquest Premium offers a range of fuel filters for the Peterbilt 579, including:

• Fuel/Water Separator Element (Part No. 86585XE)
• High Efficiency Fuel Spin-on (Part No. 86528)
• Secondary Fuel Spin-on (Part No. 86336)
• Primary Fuel Spin-on (Part No. 86118)
• Fuel Spin-on (Part Nos. 86109, 86352, 86377, 86626, 86966, 86674, 86107, 86936, 86651, 86777, 86120, 86965, 86107, 86711, 86374, 86965, 86697, 86270, 86850)
• Fuel/Water Separator Element (Part No. 96269)
• Wire Cloth In-line Fuel Strainer (Part No. 86270)
• Secondary Fuel Element (Part No. 86511)

Fram

Fram offers the HD Fuel, Secondary Spin-on (Part No. P4102A) fuel filter, which is designed for modern fuel injection systems and oxygenated fuels.

Wix

Wix has a range of fuel filters for the Peterbilt 579, including:

• Fuel/Water Separator Element (Part No. 2277129PE)
• Fuel Filter (Part No. FS20172)
• Fuel Separator (Part Nos. 91734HW, 39213WKPN, 57599BS, 72149KX, 11462QD, 48739CWHV, 54471VYDX, 55611DD, 71546TMPV, 92211VGXR, 52656GJ, 45521KMKM, 93247ZYTW, 85351XNZC, 61292PCKY, 21143KMFP)

Baldwin

Baldwin offers a range of fuel filters for the Peterbilt 579, including:

• Fuel/Water Separator (Part Nos. 2133096PE, 17277NK)
• Fuel Filter (Part Nos. 53654JMQD, 5599456, 7154, 11462QD, 5365988, 5575143, 57599BS, 21143KMFP)
• Fuel Separator (Part Nos. 72149KX, 55611DD, 85351XNZC, 48739CWHV, 93247ZYTW, 52656GJ, 17277NK, 91734HW, 45521KMKM)

Unbranded

There are also some unbranded fuel filter options available for the Peterbilt 579, including:

• Fuel/Water Separator Element (Part No. 2277129)
• Fuel Filter (Part Nos. K37-1029, FS20172, K37-1012, K37-1011, WF10500, K37-1021, K37-1004, FS19765, FF5776, FF63041NN, 1R0749, 1R0750, 1R0716, FF5825NN, 1R1807, 1R1808, 2568573, 1R0749, 1R0750, 1R0716, FF5825NN, 1R1807, 1R1808, 2568573, FF63009, 5303743, NG5900)
• Fuel Separator (Part No. 81822CJZQ)

Fuel filter brands

When it comes to choosing a fuel filter for your Peterbilt 579, there are several reputable brands that offer compatible products. Here is an overview of some well-known fuel filter brands and their offerings:

Baldwin Filters

Baldwin Filters is a trusted brand that offers a range of fuel filters compatible with the Peterbilt 579. Their products are designed to keep fuel free of contaminants, ensuring maximum engine efficiency. Baldwin Filters offers various options, including the FF5825NN fuel filter, which is compatible with Cummins engines and is available in packs of 6 or 12. They also provide fuel/water separators, such as the 2133096PE separator element, which fits the Peterbilt 579.

WIX

WIX is another leading brand in the filtration industry. They offer fuel filters compatible with the Peterbilt 579, such as the WF10518 fuel filter. This filter is designed for 2019 Kenworth and Peterbilt 579 models, providing efficient fuel filtration. WIX also provides fuel filters for different model years of the Peterbilt 579, ensuring optimal fuel system performance.

Fleetguard

Fleetguard is a renowned manufacturer of fuel filters, and they offer compatible options for the Peterbilt 579. Their FF5825NN fuel filter is designed to meet or exceed original equipment (OE) performance levels, ensuring reliable engine operation. Fleetguard also provides fuel/water separators, such as the FS20172 separator, which helps keep the fuel system free of water and contaminants.

Paccar

Paccar is a well-known brand in the commercial vehicle industry, and they offer fuel filters specifically designed for Peterbilt trucks, including the Peterbilt 579. Their fuel filter, with the part number K37-1029, is a popular choice for ensuring clean fuel and protecting the engine. Paccar also offers a range of other filters for Peterbilt trucks, including air filters and oil filters.

Carquest Premium

Carquest Premium is a trusted brand offered by Advance Auto Parts. They provide fuel filters for the 2023 Peterbilt 579, ensuring that modern fuel injection systems remain free of particulate and water contamination. The Carquest Premium fuel spin-on filter (Part No.96891) is designed to meet or exceed OE filter performance levels, making it a reliable choice for your vehicle.

These brands offer a range of fuel filters and related products specifically designed for the Peterbilt 579, ensuring optimal fuel system performance and engine protection. When choosing a fuel filter, it is important to consider the compatibility with your vehicle's specific model year and engine type. Always refer to the manufacturer's recommendations and consult a qualified technician if you have any questions or concerns.

Fuel filter prices

• Advance Auto Parts: Offers a range of fuel filters for the Peterbilt 579, starting from $89.99.
• EBay: Lists vary in price, with some fuel filters sold individually for as low as $23.75, while others are sold in packs of 6 for around $84, and even up to $559.99 for a pack of 12.
• Amazon: Offers a range of fuel filters, with prices varying depending on the brand and compatibility. For example, a WIX fuel filter for the Peterbilt 579 is priced at $54.99, while a Baldwin fuel filter is priced at $55.61.

It is important to note that prices may vary depending on the seller, the manufacturer, and the specific model of the Peterbilt 579. Additionally, some fuel filters may be sold as part of a kit or bundle, which can also affect the price. It is always recommended to consult a trusted mechanic or a Peterbilt specialist to ensure you are getting the correct fuel filter for your vehicle.

Fuel filter benefits

While many vehicle owners are diligent about changing their engine oil and air filters, the fuel filter is often overlooked. However, the fuel filter is one of the most important components of a modern combustion engine, and changing it regularly brings several benefits.

A clean and properly functioning fuel filter allows for uninterrupted fuel flow to the engine. Fuel filters can become clogged with contaminants such as dirt, rust, and debris from the fuel tank. A clogged filter restricts fuel flow, leading to reduced engine performance, sluggish acceleration, and even engine misfires.

Unobstructed Fuel Flow

A clean fuel filter ensures smooth and unrestricted fuel flow, which is crucial for optimal fuel efficiency. When the filter is clogged, the engine must work harder to draw fuel, resulting in increased fuel consumption. Regular changes maintain proper fuel flow, ensuring your vehicle operates efficiently and maximises fuel economy, saving you money at the pump and extending your driving range.

Protects Fuel Injectors

Fuel injectors deliver the correct amount of fuel to the engine's combustion chambers. A contaminated fuel filter can allow particles to reach and damage the injectors, causing blockages or malfunctions. Regular changes protect the injectors, ensuring accurate and efficient fuel delivery and avoiding costly repairs or replacements.

Longevity of Fuel System Components

A clogged fuel filter strains the fuel pump, which has to work harder to push fuel through the blockage. This can lead to premature wear and potential failure of the pump. Regular changes alleviate this strain, extending the lifespan of the fuel pump and other fuel system components, reducing the risk of costly repairs.

Protection Against Contaminants

Contaminants in fuel, such as rust, sediment, and debris, can cause significant damage to your engine if not filtered out. A properly functioning fuel filter acts as a barrier, capturing these harmful particles and preventing them from entering the engine. Regular changes ensure the filter remains effective, safeguarding the engine and promoting its longevity.

Prevention of Fuel System Corrosion

Over time, moisture and impurities can accumulate in the fuel tank, leading to corrosion. A clean fuel filter helps prevent these contaminants from reaching critical components like fuel lines and injectors, reducing the risk of corrosion and contributing to the overall health and longevity of your engine and fuel system.

Changing your fuel filter according to the manufacturer's guidelines is essential for maintaining the health and performance of your vehicle's engine.

Fuel filter features

Fuel filters are an essential component of any vehicle, including heavy-duty trucks like the Peterbilt 579. They play a critical role in capturing particles and debris before they can contaminate the fuel system, ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity. Here are some key features of fuel filters:

Filter Media

The type of media used in a fuel filter is crucial to its effectiveness. Common types of filter media include:

• Cellulose: Traditional filter media that allows for a freer flow of fuel but may not offer the same level of filtration as other types.
• Microglass: This media can filter down to smaller micron levels, such as 6 microns in the case of the AirDog® FF200-MG-6 filter, resulting in finer filtration.
• Stratopore: This high-quality media is used in the AirDog® FF100-2 filter for light-duty truck applications, providing 2-micron filtration.

Compatibility and Customization

It is essential to select a fuel filter that is compatible with your specific vehicle and engine type. AirDog® fuel filters, for example, are customized for different applications, with specific filters for heavy-duty commercial trucks and light-duty pickup trucks. Using the wrong filter can lead to decreased engine protection and performance.

Water Separation

Water contamination is a significant issue in fuel systems, especially with the use of ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) and biodiesel. Some fuel filters, like the AirDog® FF200-MG-6, come with a corresponding water separator/pre-filter, such as the WS200-HS, which uses Hydrosorb media to efficiently remove water and large particulates.

Efficiency and Flow

The efficiency of a fuel filter is determined by its ability to capture contaminants while allowing fuel to flow freely. Synthetic filter media formulations have been developed to deliver higher efficiency, lower pressure drop, and higher capacity. The use of synthetic engine oils, for instance, has led to the need for filters that can last longer while effectively capturing soot and contaminants.

Service Intervals

Fuel filters need to be replaced or serviced at regular intervals to maintain optimal performance. The recommended service interval for a fuel filter depends on various factors, including the type of fuel, the presence of contaminants, and the mileage of the vehicle. The AirDog® FF200-MG-6 filter, for example, can typically be operated for up to 40,000 miles in the absence of serious contaminants.

Spare Filters

It is always recommended to carry spare fuel filters when operating heavy trucks. Clogged filters can lead to unwanted downtime and expensive mechanical repairs. Keeping spare filters on hand ensures that you can quickly replace a clogged filter and avoid the inconvenience and cost of emergency repairs.

Frequently asked questions