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Fuel filter replacement delima

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Old Jan 24, 2006 | 02:57 AM
  #1  
joe Kikiwai's Avatar
joe Kikiwai
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Wink Fuel filter replacement delima

Changing the fuel filter for the first time. Followed instructions from past threads.. But when I opened the cap and pulled the filter out I discovered that the cap and the filter could not be seperated. The filter I purchased was just a white colored filter and two O rings. Prior to starting the job I assumed that the cap & filter would seperate from each other. Not having other transportation, I replaced the old filter, re-filled the fuel bowl, checked for leaks and ran to this site seeking help...... I was also unable to locate the drain valveon the fuel bowl. When I moved the yellow lever, the fuel drained from some unknown location below. Can any one help ?
 

Last edited by joe Kikiwai; Jan 24, 2006 at 03:01 AM. Reason: smiles not working
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Old Jan 24, 2006 | 03:16 AM
  #2  
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cangim
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From: Utah County, UT
The fuel drains out of the bowl for the fuel filter through a little tube that exits almost right above the axle. Most have connected extension lines on to catch the fuel in a container. As for the filter and cap, I have heard of filters with caps attached, but not to sure on exacts, maybe someone else with some experience with that type of cap can chime in.
 
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Old Jan 24, 2006 | 06:09 AM
  #3  
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cedman
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From: Franklinton, NC
The OEM filter is not attached to the lid, however, some replacement filters include the cap attached to the filter. Perhaps the filter has been replaced and the previous owner lost or discarded the OEM lid?
CedricR.
 
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Old Jan 24, 2006 | 08:23 AM
  #4  
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cleatus12r
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From: Reed Point, MT
I feel for you man!! I had the EXACT SAME PROBLEM!! Also had to re-use the old filter. I went to my friendly Ford dealer and ordered a new fuel filter cap so that I can replace filters again.

Now I have a new filter and a new cap.

Yep, some aftermarket suppliers stock a filter/cap combo that has a 1/2" square drive for easier removal.

Cody
 
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Old Jan 24, 2006 | 08:47 AM
  #5  
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zog02
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I buy the fuel filters with the plastic cap already attached to the filter and have had no problems with them. I have got them from Advance or Auto Zone. You can also get them off of ebay at a significantly reduced price....especially if you buy a couple at a time. Unless you want to, there is no reason to go buy one of the stock caps from ford. You don't replace them often enough to make it worth it in my opinion. Just my 2 cents.
 
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Old Jan 24, 2006 | 10:43 AM
  #6  
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bigpowerstroke
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From: San Antonio, TX
if you need a new lid you can get one from anyone that sells wix filters. part#24232
 
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Old Jan 30, 2006 | 06:17 PM
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I have a couple questions on this subject. First, I have an '03 6.0 liter Powerstroke and can't find the appropriate Chiltons Manual so I'm looking for filter change advice here. I want to change my fuel filter and I'm following these posts. I'm understanding that the filter is a cartridge type unit similar to the oil filter and also mounted in the engine compartment. What I don't know is how to de-pressurize the system. Also, it sounds like I have to add fuel somewhere (other than the fuel tank) after the filter change. Is there anything else required during a fuel filter change?
My water separator appears to be a brass plug with an allen key located under the chassis. Is this correct? How much fuel do I let run from this water separator?
Finally, why don't auto manufacturers place a fuel filter in front of the fuel pump? Wouldn't this prolong the pump life while still providing clean fuel to the injectors?
 
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Old Jan 30, 2006 | 07:07 PM
  #8  
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CAT_man_963
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From: Elverson, PA
My Dad has a 6.0, so I can help ya out - but you may want to check out the 6.0 forum for more info on your truck...

That plug with the allen head is what you want to remove to de-pressurize the system - good luck though - it's right in line with the front drive shaft!!

There are 2 filters - the one you mentioned up in the engine bay - (that one is cake to change), and also one mounted sideways up on(and in) the frame (GOOD thinkin FORD ) directly behind the previously mentioned allen head drain screw. It's a REAL PITA to get to, wedged between the frame and the front drive shaft - it's not an easy one to change. If my memory serves me correctly, it takes a... 32mm socket to get it off.

I drained my Dad's until it totally stopped running out. Then after you are all done - just turn the key on for like 20 seconds, and then off again, repeat... repeat... repeat... it takes a few cycles to get the lines all filled again!
 
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Old Jan 31, 2006 | 01:24 PM
  #9  
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Thanks for the info. I don't have the 4X4 so I don't have much in the way under my truck. I loosened that allen "just to see" and I didn't see any water (Only have 14K miles on my truck), but lots of fuel came out. Actually, the fuel didn't seem like it was going to stop so I screwed her back in. I 'll tackle the filter change this weekend. Thanks again.
 
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Old Feb 2, 2006 | 02:57 AM
  #10  
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joe Kikiwai
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From: Hilo, Hawaii
thank you

thanks for all you help you guys are great
 
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