Replacing Fuel Filter: Ford F550 Step-By-Step Guide

how to replace fuel filter on ford f550

If you own a Ford F550 truck, you may need to replace the fuel filter at some point. This is a critical service procedure that protects the remainder of the fuel system and ensures fuel flow is not impeded due to a filter obstruction. The process of replacing the fuel filter varies depending on the model year of your truck. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to replace the fuel filter on a Ford F550, covering different model years and engine types.

Characteristics Values
Fuel filter location Near the front of the engine in the valley
Fuel filter type Single fuel filter
Fuel filter replacement Critical service procedure that protects the fuel system and ensures fuel flow is not impeded due to a filter obstruction
Fuel filter kit Motorcraft fuel filter kit FD4625AA (includes both fuel filters needed)
Fuel filter replacement procedure 1. Place the drain pan under the water in the fuel separator filter housing found under the cab between the frame rails
2. Remove all 3 fuel lines going to the filter by sliding plastic clips over and pulling lines away from the filter one at a time
3. Loosen the filter from its housing by loosening it a 1/4 turn
4. Install the new fuel filter and tighten into housing the same way the old filter was removed
5. Reinstall all 3 fuel lines into the filter and lock clips into place
6. Cycle the key to the ON position and leave it for 30 seconds while the fuel pump primes the fuel system

shunfuel

Removing the fuel lines

To remove the fuel lines from a Ford F550, you will need to place a drain pan under the water in the fuel separator filter housing, which is found under the cab between the frame rails. Then, remove all three fuel lines going to the filter by sliding the plastic clips over and pulling the lines away from the filter one at a time. Loosen the filter from its housing by turning it a quarter to the left.

The 6.0L Power Stroke features two fuel filters. The primary fuel filter is located in the Horizontal Fuel Conditioning Module (HFCM), which is mounted to the driver's side frame rail. The HFCM also contains the water-fuel separator. The secondary filter is positioned on the top side of the engine, just to the right of the engine oil filter.

The 7.3L Power Stroke has a single fuel filter located near the front of the engine in the valley. It features a convenient drain valve and tube system that allows the housing to be drained remotely.

When removing the fuel lines, be careful not to over-tighten the fuel filter cap, as this can cause it to crack and leak fuel. You may also need to purchase a new Ford-style cap if you are installing a genuine Ford fuel filter, as some aftermarket fuel filters come with their own cap and are not always compatible with the factory replacement.

shunfuel

Loosening the filter from its housing

Loosen the filter from its housing by turning it a quarter of the way. You may need to purchase a new Ford-style cap if you are installing a genuine Ford fuel filter. Over-tightening the fuel filter cap can cause it to crack and leak fuel, so be careful not to do this.

shunfuel

Installing the new fuel filter

First, place the drain pan under the water in the fuel separator filter housing found under the cab between the frame rails. Next, remove all three fuel lines going to the filter by sliding the plastic clips over and pulling the lines away from the filter one at a time. Loosen the filter from its housing by turning it a quarter to the left. Now, install the new fuel filter and tighten it into the housing in the same way that the old one was removed. Reinstall all three fuel lines into the filter and lock the clips into place. Finally, cycle the key to the 'on' position and leave it for 30 seconds while the fuel pump primes the fuel system.

You may also want to consider replacing the fuel filter cap periodically (every few filter changes). They tend to crack and cause an oily mess when they leak fuel. Over-tightening the fuel filter cap can contribute to this problem.

shunfuel

Reinstalling the fuel lines

To reinstall the fuel lines, first place the drain pan under the water in the fuel separator filter housing found under the cab between the frame rails. Then, reinstall all three fuel lines into the filter and lock the clips into place. Cycle the key to the 'on' position and leave it for 30 seconds while the fuel pump primes the fuel system.

You may also need to replace the fuel filter cap periodically (every few filter changes). They tend to crack and cause an oily mess when they leak fuel. Over-tightening the fuel filter cap contributes to this problem.

To avoid this, reinstall the new fuel filter and tighten down the fuel filter cap. Make sure not to over-tighten it.

shunfuel

Priming the fuel system

To prime the fuel system, cycle the key to the ON position and leave it for 30 seconds while the fuel pump primes the fuel system.

Frequently asked questions

The 6.0L Power Stroke has two fuel filters. The primary fuel filter is located in the HFCM, or Horizontal Fuel Conditioning Module, mounted to the driver side frame rail. The HFCM also contains the water-fuel separator. The secondary filter is positioned on the top side of the engine, just right of the engine oil filter.

The 7.3L Power Stroke has a single fuel filter located near the front of the engine in the valley. It features a convenient drain valve and tube system that allows the housing to be drained remotely.

If your aftermarket fuel filter comes with its own cap, you will need to purchase a new Ford style cap if you intend on installing a genuine Ford fuel filter. You may also consider replacing the fuel filter cap periodically (every few filter changes); they tend to crack and cause an oily mess when they leak fuel. Over-tightening the fuel filter cap contributes to this problem.

Written by
Reviewed by

Explore related products

Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment