I anticipate having to change my fuel filter, so I bought two aftermarket filters. The aftermarket filters have a recess fit to accept a 1/2 inch square for tightening / loosening. The (stock?) filter currently in my truck has no such feature. Rather it has a set of 8 pillars around the outside with webbing between them and the flat. This was far too tight to loosen by hand.

Is there a custom tool to extract these filters? I can probably fashion something up but if there is a better way it would be good to know.

Rory

 

snap-on makes a tool for around 20 dollars. check out their website for a picture of it. it seems easy enough to even build.

 

A long screw driver is what I always use, just push down hard on it so it doesnt slip out of the webbing and bust a knuckle.

Diesel Rod

 

Do you have to remove the plastic shroud to get enough leverage, or can you get enough just by opening the top access door?

 

depends on how tight the lid is and how strong you are......


dieselinnovations has a sweet polished filter lid tool that is $29 i dont have a factory bowl on my truck anymore but want one just to have in the tool box to look cool.....


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I always do it through the access door with a screwdriver. Find one just the right length, it is kind of tight. If your top is really tight, you may want to remove the shroud (only three bolts) so you don't slip and tear a knuckle!

 

I took the plastic covers out of both of my trucks. There's always a mouse about that figured it was a great shelter every fall. Glad i trapped them before they got to chewing in the wires.

As to the filter, i've just used a screwdriver as described above. Since i've gone to Baldwin filters, i now use the ratchet to open them. I've never had to use any tools to tighten them.

 

Thanks,

While I'm at it, is there a documented procedure somewhere which details the process of filter changes? I got the truck used, without so much as a glove-box manual.

Rory

 

Here's a step by step I found on this site. It's an easy job but I highly recommend getting the hose to drain the fuel or you'll have it ALL over.



How To Change The Fuel Filter On A 7.3L Powerstroke Diesel

by John Heimel (aka Johnsdiesel)

Once you have done this once it won't take more than 5 minutes to do. Here's what you do:

1. Open lid/remove plastic cover over fuel bowl (depending on year).

2. Open drain valve (to the left side at the bottom of the bowl) by pushing it to the left (back of the truck). You may want to attach a piece of 5/16" hose to the bottom of the drain

so you can avoid a mess.

3. Unscrew the fuel bowl lid. You may need to use tools to loosen the lid, but I can usually get mine by hand. If I need to I can hook up my 1/2" socket wrench to the lid.

4. Remove the old fuel filter and o-ring (from the lid).

5. Close the drain valve on the fuel bowl.

6. This is optional. Fill the fuel bowl about 1/2 way with Standyne Lubricity Formula or a similar product.

7. Install the new o-ring on the lid making sure to follow the instructions for the beveled edge. Lightly coat the new o-ring with fresh diesel fuel.

8. Attach the new fuel filter to the lid.

9. Install the new filter/lid and make sure it is on straight and tight.

10. Turn the key and wait for at least 10 seconds, especially if you didn't add any additive to the fuel bowl. This will allow the fuel bowl to fill before you start the engine.

You can use filters that come attached to the lid, but don't throw your lid away. You may need it if you go back to the other style filter.