Mercedes Mullins
The fuel water separator filter in a Cummins engine should be replaced every 15,000 miles or once a year. This is a simple DIY project that should take no more than 30 minutes to complete. The fuel water separator filter and primary fuel filter housing are mounted to the driver's side of the engine. An integral drain valve mounted to the side of the housing drains the bowl through a hose protruding to the side of the engine oil pan flange. This process is important to ensure the health and protection of the engine's fuel system.
Characteristics and Values Table
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Replacement frequency | Every 15,000 miles or once a year |
| Replacement frequency for 2007-2012 models | Every 15,000 miles |
| Replacement frequency for 2013 and newer models | Every 15,000 miles or once a year; an auxiliary filter is also present |
| Replacement cost | $100-$150 |
| Time taken for replacement | 30 minutes |
| Fuel filter location | Mounted to the driver's side of the engine |
| Fuel-water separator drain hose location | Use a 1/2 inch hose mender and clear chemical tubing to extend the drain hose |
| Fuel additive | Use a diesel fuel additive to extend the life of the fuel system |
| Fuel filter and oil change frequency | Every 8,000 miles |
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What You'll Learn
Fuel filter replacement frequency
For 6.7L Cummins turbodiesels, the fuel filter(s) should be replaced at 15,000-mile intervals, every 12 months, or immediately after a "fuel filter service required" or "water in the fuel" message is displayed. This is to protect the engine's fuel system.
Some sources suggest that the fuel filter should be replaced every 10,000-25,000 miles, depending on driving style. Failure to replace the filter could result in a clogged filter, which will damage the engine and injectors over time.
One source suggests that the rear filter should be changed every 15,000 miles, with the front filter being replaced every 30,000 miles.
Another owner of a 2014 Cummins states that they change their fuel filter every 8,000 miles, and plan to do another at 16,000 miles.
It is important to note that the fuel/water separator should be drained regularly.
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Fuel-water separator cost
The cost of a fuel-water separator filter for a Cummins engine can vary depending on the model of the engine and the supplier of the filter.
For example, the Fleetguard FS20089 fuel-water separator filter, which is compatible with 2013 to 2018 model Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 series trucks with 6.7L Cummins diesel engines, is available from KLM Performance.
The cost of the fuel filter itself can range from $75 to $150, depending on the brand and the supplier. The fuel-water separator filter can also be purchased as part of a conversion kit, which is designed to save money on fuel filters and make filter changes easier. This conversion kit typically includes Cat filters but can accommodate other major brands.
It is recommended to replace the fuel-water separator filter every 15,000 miles or once a year, depending on the model of the Cummins engine. Some owners choose to replace the filter every other oil change, which may be a more cost-effective option in the long run, as it reduces the risk of water damage to the fuel system and engine.
The replacement process can be completed in under 30 minutes, and it is recommended to use a ziplock bag to cover the rear filter to avoid spilling diesel fuel. Additionally, it is important to note that the drain hose should not be completely inserted into the filter housing, as it may become stuck.
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Drain hose extension
The fuel-water separator and primary fuel filter housing on a 6.7L Cummins turbodiesel engine are mounted to the driver's side of the engine. The drain hose is readily accessible, but there is little space to fit a container to catch the drained fuel. This is where a drain hose extension comes in.
The drain hose extension is a simple fitting that can be inserted into the drain hose, with the other end placed in a suitable container. This allows for the fuel-water separator and fuel filter housing to be drained without spilling diesel fuel. It is important to note that you should not completely insert the fitting into the filter housing drain hose, as it may become stuck or even impossible to remove. Only insert the fitting as much as necessary to secure it in place.
A 1/2 inch hose mender (coupling) and a section of clear chemical tubing can be used to extend the drain hose. These materials are widely available at your local hardware store. You can also use a piece of clear poly tubing, which can be tucked into the frame crossmember near the steering gear. Another option is to use a piece of garden hose and then remove it after draining.
For 2007.5 - 2010 Dodge Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, 5500 (6.7L Cummins Turbodiesel) and 2011 - 2023 Ram Trucks Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, 5500 (6.7L Cummins Turbodiesel), the fuel filter housing drain hose is positioned on the driver's side of the engine block, next to the oil pan flange. The drain hose extension can be used to collect the drained fuel in a container placed beneath the hose.
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$18.68 $23.14
Fuel filter replacement process
The fuel filter replacement process for a Cummins engine can be done in a few steps. Firstly, it is important to note that the fuel filter(s) and fuel-water separator should be replaced at specific intervals, typically every 15,000 miles, once per year, or when prompted by a "fuel filter service required" or "water in the fuel" message on the dashboard.
The first step in the replacement process is to drain the fuel-water separator and the fuel filter housing. This can be done by using a ziplock bag or extending the drain hose into a suitable container to avoid spilling diesel fuel. Ensure that you do not insert any barbed fitting completely into the filter housing drain hose, as it may become stuck.
Next, remove the old fuel filter(s) and fuel-water separator. This may vary depending on the model year of your Cummins engine. For 2007 to 2012 models, the primary fuel filter and fuel-water separator unit are mounted to the driver's side of the engine. Starting from 2013, an auxiliary filter is included, mounted on the frame rail between the fuel tank(s) and the engine.
Install the new fuel filter(s) and fuel-water separator, ensuring they are securely mounted. For the 2013 and newer models, remember to prime the fuel system after replacing the filters to prevent the fuel injectors and injection pump from running dry.
Finally, dispose of the old fuel filter(s) and fuel-water separator properly and according to local regulations. It is recommended to consult a professional or a trusted mechanic if you are unsure about any steps or procedures.
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Fuel lubricity additives
To change the fuel water separator filter on a Cummins engine, you should first refer to your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendations. However, as a general guide, for 6.7L Cummins turbodiesels, the primary fuel filter and fuel-water separator unit are mounted to the driver's side of the engine. Models from 2007 to 2012 rely solely on this filtration assembly, while 2013 and newer trucks have an auxiliary filter mounted on the frame rail. The fuel filter(s) should typically be replaced every 15,000 miles or once a year.
Now, on to fuel lubricity additives. These additives are essential for maintaining the health of your vehicle's fuel systems and engine, especially if you own a diesel-powered vehicle. The process of removing sulfur from diesel fuel to create Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) also removes oxygen and nitrogen, which are important for lubricity. This lack of lubricity can cause excessive wear and even failure of fuel system components, particularly fuel pumps and injectors.
Another option is Bell Performance's Lube-Pro, which lubricates diesel engine parts, reduces engine noise for smoother idling, and increases fuel efficiency. Lube-Pro also protects injectors and fuel pumps by increasing the lubricity value of all types of diesel fuel, especially ULSD. It exceeds both ASTM and EMA standards for fuel lubricity and can be used in any type of middle distillate diesel fuel to improve engine performance.
By using fuel lubricity additives, you can effectively protect your fuel system and engine, ensuring a longer lifespan and avoiding potential mechanical failures.
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Frequently asked questions
Cummins requires that the fuel filter(s) be replaced at 15,000-mile intervals, every 12 months, or promptly after a "fuel filter service required" or "water in the fuel" message is presented.
Filter replacement is vital to the health and protection of the Cummins' fuel system. It helps prevent water from entering the fuel system and engine, which could be costly.
The cost of replacement filters is around \$100-110 for both, but dealership prices can be higher. The labour rates can also be expensive, so it may be worth finding a trusted independent shop or doing it yourself.
Replacing the fuel filter(s) is an easy do-it-yourself project that should take no more than 30 minutes to complete.
You will need a standard length 28 mm socket or a dedicated fuel filter socket, a ziplock bag to prevent spills, a hose mender (coupling), and a section of clear chemical tubing to extend the drain hose.
