Changing the fuel filters on a Ford F350 diesel truck is a relatively simple task that can be performed at home. It is recommended that fuel filters are replaced every 10,000 miles or so, or every two years, to ensure the health of the fuel system. This article will outline the steps and tools required to change the fuel filters on a Ford F350 diesel truck.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Vehicle | Ford F-350 |
Engine | 6.7L Powerstroke Diesel |
Year | 2012 |
Tools | 36mm Socket, 6mm Allen Wrench, 24mm Socket or 1/2" Drive Ratchet, Medium Flathead Screwdriver, 5/16 Line Compression Removal Tool, Strap Wrench or Large Channellock Pliers |
Supplies | Fuel Filter Kit, Bucket or Tub, Leak-Proof Container, Gloves, Rags or Paper Towels |
Steps | 1. Drain the fuel; 2. Remove primary and secondary fuel filter caps; 3. Remove and replace filters; 4. Test and restart |
What You'll Learn
Draining the fuel
To drain the fuel of your F350 diesel truck, you will need a large basin or a bucket/tub, and a suitable container for the old fuel. The water drain port is located under the vehicle on the driver's side. Place your chosen basin or bucket underneath the fuel pump, which is under the driver's door on the frame rail.
Now, locate the allen plug on the side of the fuel pump. It is a small, brass plug. Using a 6mm allen wrench, remove the allen plug. Be sure to have your catch bucket directly in place, as the fuel/water will drain completely.
Next, you will need to loosen the fuel filter housing about three turns before draining. This will keep additional fuel from entering the housing when draining and will keep fuel waste to a minimum. It will also reduce the mess.
Turn the yellow drain lever on the back of the housing clockwise by a quarter turn to drain the fuel. This will take a couple of minutes. Drain the fuel into a suitable container and dispose of it properly.
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Removing the primary fuel filter cap
To remove the primary fuel filter cap of your F350 diesel truck, you will need a 36mm wrench, a 6mm allen wrench, a 36mm socket, a bucket or tub, and a coffee can or other leak-proof container.
First, place the 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 the 6mm allen wrench, remove the allen plug. With the bucket in place, drain the fuel/water completely.
Now, using the 36mm socket, remove the large black end cap on the end that is nearer to the engine. Note that the fuel filter will slide out along with the cap. Pull the old filter and the o-ring from the cap, and properly dispose of both.
At this point, you can install the new primary fuel filter into the cap. Once seated properly, the new filter will snap into place. Install the supplied o-ring into position on the end cap.
Finally, insert the new filter and cap section into the fuel pump, using the 36mm socket to tighten the cap securely. Be careful not to over-tighten or cross-thread it.
And that's it! You have now successfully removed and replaced the primary fuel filter cap on your F350 diesel truck.
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Removing the secondary fuel filter cap
To remove the secondary fuel filter cap of a Ford F350 diesel truck, follow these steps:
Firstly, locate the secondary fuel filter. It is located in the engine compartment, sitting between the CAC tube and the air intake tube.
Now, identify the two lids on the filters. One is for the oil filter, and the other, smaller one, is for the secondary fuel filter.
Using a 24mm socket or a 1/2" square drive ratchet, remove the black top cap of the secondary fuel filter.
Next, remove the fuel filter from its housing, and take out the o-ring from the lid.
At this stage, you can use a turkey baster to drain the excess fuel from the housing. Remember to dispose of the fuel safely and appropriately.
Now, insert the new secondary filter into the housing.
Finally, install the new o-ring onto the lid, and reinstall the black top cap. Use the 24mm socket or 1/2" square drive ratchet to torque the bolt to 124lb. per in. (approximately 10-11lb. per ft.).
You have now successfully removed and replaced the secondary fuel filter cap of your F350 diesel truck.
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Testing and restarting the engine
Once you have finished replacing the fuel filters, you will need to test and restart the engine. This is a critical step to ensure that the filters have been installed correctly and that the fuel system is functioning properly. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Turn the ignition key to the "Run" position: After replacing the secondary fuel filter cap, turn the ignition key to the "Run" or "On" position without starting the engine. Hold this position for about 30 seconds. This step will prime the fuel system and help to bleed out any air. It is important to perform this step at least three times, for 30 seconds each time, to ensure that the system is adequately primed.
- Check for leaks: Before starting the engine, carefully inspect the fuel system for any signs of leaks. Make sure that all connections are secure and tight.
- Start the engine: After the priming process is complete, you can now try to start the engine. Turn the ignition and start the engine as you normally would.
- Inspect for leaks again: Once the engine is running, continue to monitor the fuel system for any signs of leaks. Pay close attention to the new filter and cap assembly for the first few minutes of engine operation.
- Test drive the vehicle: If no leaks are detected, take the vehicle for a test drive. Drive it around the block or on a short route to ensure that the engine is performing optimally and that the new fuel filters are functioning as expected.
- Final checks: After the test drive, park the vehicle and perform a final inspection of the engine and fuel system. Make sure there are no leaks or unusual noises. Check the engine performance and ensure that acceleration, fuel economy, and overall performance have improved.
It is important to note that proper priming of the fuel system is crucial to prevent serious damage to the injectors. Failing to prime the system adequately can result in undetectable damage to the injectors, which may cause issues in the future. Therefore, take your time during the testing and restarting process, and do not skip any steps.
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Resetting the inertia switch
For 2017 F350 trucks, the vehicle is not equipped with an inertia switch. Instead, in the event of a collision, the fuel pump is shut off by a signal from the Restraints Control Module (RCM). If the vehicle shuts off due to a collision, you can restart it by first turning the ignition to the OFF position and then turning it back to the ON position.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to change the fuel filters in your F350 diesel truck every 10,000 miles or every year, depending on usage.
You will need a 36mm socket, a 6mm Allen wrench, a 24mm socket or 1/2" drive ratchet, a strap wrench or large Channellock pliers, and a medium flathead screwdriver.
You will need a complete fuel filter kit, oil-resistant gloves, rags or paper towels, and a new fuel filter cap.
First, relieve the pressure from the fuel system and drain the fuel. Then, remove the primary and secondary fuel filter caps and replace them with new ones. Next, test and restart your vehicle. Finally, reset the inertia switch.
Some signs that you may need to change your fuel filters include poor fuel economy, poor performance, and difficulty accelerating.