Replacing Racor Fuel Filter: A Step-By-Step Guide For Beginners

Changing a Racor fuel filter is a relatively simple process that can be done by following a few steps. It involves draining the filter, removing it, and replacing it with a new one. It is important to note that there are different types of Racor filters, and the process may vary slightly depending on the specific model. Additionally, it is recommended to replace the O-rings and inspect the sealing surfaces to ensure there are no leaks. The frequency of replacement depends on various factors, such as the quality of fuel, engine hours, and visual inspection of the filter.

Draining the filter

To begin, locate the Racor filter and place a clean bucket underneath it to catch any excess fuel that may spill out during the draining process. Once the bucket is in place, carefully loosen the drain plug at the bottom of the filter housing. Depending on the design of your Racor filter, you may need to use a wrench or a screwdriver to loosen the plug. Be cautious when loosening the plug, as fuel will start to drain out once it is open.

If your Racor filter has a clear plastic bowl, you can observe the fuel level and stop draining once the bowl is empty. If not, you will need to estimate when the filter is close to being empty. Be sure to have a fuel-resistant container ready to catch the drained fuel. Once the filter is drained, remove the bowl and set it aside.

It is important to note that you should not completely empty the Racor filter housing. Leaving a small amount of fuel in the filter will help prevent air from getting into the system. Additionally, some people choose to leave the filter housing untouched and simply remove the filter itself from the fuel, replacing it with a new one. This method can be messier but eliminates the need to drain and refill the filter housing.

After draining the filter, it is important to properly dispose of the drained fuel. Do not pour it down the drain or into the environment. Instead, find a safe and responsible way to dispose of it, such as taking it to a designated waste disposal site.

Removing the filter and bowl

To remove the filter and bowl of a Racor fuel filter, start by draining the filter. Once the filter is drained, remove it and then the bowl. If the bowl is clear plastic, as is common, you will be able to see the fuel inside.

After removing the bowl, oil the O-rings. The O-rings are important seals that should be changed regularly, so it is worth keeping a stock of spares. Use paper towels or lint-free cloth to clean the sealing surfaces and carefully inspect any seals you don't plan on changing for damage. If you spot any issues, replace the seal.

Once you have removed the filter and bowl, and oiled the O-rings, you can replace the bowl and move on to the next steps of changing your Racor fuel filter.

Oiling the O-rings

Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary supplies, including a new O-ring, a clean cloth or paper towel, and a suitable lubricant. It is also recommended to wear gloves to keep the work area clean.

First, locate the O-ring on the Racor fuel filter. It is typically found on the sealing surface of the filter. Using a clean cloth or paper towel, carefully clean the sealing surface, removing any dirt, debris, or residue. This step is crucial to ensure that the new O-ring has a clean surface to adhere to.

Next, inspect the O-ring for any signs of damage or wear. Look for cracks, tears, or any creases that may have formed. If the O-ring shows any of these issues, it is important to replace it with a new one. O-rings are crucial for creating a tight seal, so ensure they are in good condition.

Now, take your new O-ring and apply a suitable lubricant to it. You can use a lubricant specifically designed for O-rings, or a light coating of oil. Ensure the lubricant is compatible with the fuel type in your system. This step will help the O-ring seat correctly and create a strong seal.

Carefully stretch the O-ring and place it onto the sealing surface of the Racor fuel filter. Ensure it sits securely in the groove and is not twisted or misaligned. The lubricant should help the O-ring slide into place smoothly.

Finally, check that the O-ring is seated correctly and there are no gaps or misalignments. A properly seated O-ring should create a strong seal, preventing any fuel leaks. Once you are satisfied with the placement, you can reassemble the fuel filter, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Remember, a well-maintained O-ring is crucial to the proper functioning of your Racor fuel filter. By following these steps, you can ensure a tight seal and prevent any potential fuel leaks. Regularly inspect and replace the O-rings as needed to maintain the efficiency of your fuel system.

Replacing the bowl

To replace the bowl of a Racor fuel filter, start by draining the filter and removing it. Next, take out the bowl, which is typically made of clear plastic. Before putting the new bowl in place, oil the O-rings. Once the new bowl is installed, hand-tighten the filter.

At this point, you may need to loosen the vent plug to allow the primer to pick up fuel from the tank. If you're unsure, try loosening the vent plug slightly and pumping to see if fuel is drawn into the system. If not, you may need to remove the vent plug entirely or use a primer bulb to suck out any air in the filter.

If you have an in-line electric fuel pump, loosen the vent plug until the filter barrel fills up, then turn on the electric pump and let the engine run until the rest of the lines are charged and full. Alternatively, you can fill the Racor reservoir by hand, but be aware that this may cause an air lock, requiring bleeding at the injectors. Make sure to have a clean bucket under the filter to catch any overflow.

Another option is to use a sports water bottle filled with diesel to fill the filter, which allows for a controlled fill with minimal mess. By filling the filter to the top, you can avoid having to bleed the engine.

Remember to always check the O-rings and seals when replacing the bowl, and consider replacing them if they show any signs of wear or damage.

Hand-tightening the filter

When hand-tightening the filter, it is important to not overtighten it. This is because the filter housing is made of plastic, and overtightening can cause it to crack or break. Instead, hand-tighten the filter until it is snug and secure, but not overly tight. This will ensure a proper seal without damaging the filter housing.

To hand-tighten the filter, first, make sure that the o-rings are lubricated and in good condition. O-rings create a seal between the filter and the housing, preventing leaks. If the o-rings are damaged or dried out, they should be replaced. Once the o-rings are ready, insert the filter into the housing and turn it clockwise by hand until it is tight.

It is important to not use tools to tighten the filter, as this can easily lead to overtightening. Hand-tightening provides better control and ensures that the filter is not overtightened. Once the filter is hand-tightened, check that it is secure by trying to turn it counterclockwise. If it does not move, it is tight enough.

In some cases, the filter may come with a T-handle on top, which can be used to tighten it further. However, it is still important to start by hand-tightening and only use the T-handle to make final adjustments if needed. Overtightening the filter can lead to leaks and damage to the housing, so it is important to be careful and not use excessive force.

Additionally, when hand-tightening the filter, make sure that the vent plug is in the correct position. The vent plug allows air to escape from the filter during use. If it is not properly positioned, it can affect the performance of the filter and the engine. In some cases, it may need to be loosened or removed to allow fuel to flow properly.

Frequently asked questions