Fuel filter write up

[JPT]

I had some time today and my truck is about due for a fuel filter so I decided to take pics and do a write up. Here it goes.

Here are the things you will need...
-Fuel filter
-Water in fuel sensor wrench
-Thread tape
-Big oil filter wrench
-Gloves
-Tuperware or cup
-Transgel or other lube for O-rings


I go straight through the top to get to the fuel filter, unplug the WIF sensor connector, loosen the fuel filter with oil filter wrench, then unscrew by hand. I bring the fuel filter up through the AC lines and battery area. Then put the old fuel filter un tupperware.



Next use the WIF sensor wrench and remove the WIF sensor.



Remove old O-ring and give the WIF sensor a shot of brake clean to clean it up, put on new o-ring and a couple layers of thread tape, make sure you wrap the thread tape in the same direction as the threads so it doesnt bunch up while tightening, next lube the o-ring with transgel.



I tighten the WIF sensor snug by hand and then give it a half turn with the wrench.



Then onto the big o-ring, get it set in nice and snug in the groove, then rub some transgel on it, get it in the crack around the o-ring, this will help it stay in during install, next lube the center o-ring/bushing, this will help it slide on nice.

[JPT]

Then back through the hole and screw the new fuel filter on.



Then snug it up with the big oil filter wrench, not real tight just nice and snug



Then crack the bleeder screw loose and start pumping the primer.



Pump until fuel starts coming out, then snug the screw back up, not real tight you are screwing into aluminum, that why I just use a flat head screwdriver.



Clean around filter with either brake clean or a rag, pump primer a few more times and check for leaks around WIF sensor and top of filter were it meets the housing. If no leaks, start truck up and check for leaks while running. If no leaks, then you are done and just saved yourself lots of easy money. Do this every 10-15K miles, it only takes about 10 mins and is very easy. Hope this helps some people out and encourages them to try it themselves.

[Maxed 08]

I just changed my fuel filter on my 08 LMM, and once you remove the tire and the inner fender liner it's a snap. I'd say it took me about 15-20 minutes and that includes removing and reinstalling the fender liner.

Randy

[corjc]

hey great job

[bmwwksmarc]

JPT: Nice write up! Who's wrench did you use? Factory tool? My Snappy guy only has a socket available.

Marc

[maxxflip]

why the teflon tape and o-ring? insurance

[JPT]

Originally Posted by bmwwksmarc

JPT: Nice write up! Who's wrench did you use? Factory tool? My Snappy guy only has a socket available.

Marc

Thanks, I forgot what brand mine is, I got it off the Mac tools truck but I have seen the exact same one on all of the tool trucks too so it is not one of their brands, I paid $9.99 for mine and then saw the exact one for $7.99 on the Cornwell truck later that day

[JPT]

Originally Posted by maxxflip

why the teflon tape and o-ring? insurance

The teflon tape just goes on the threads to help prevent leakage from the WIF sensor since they are plastic threads. I am not sure which O-ring you are talking about, all the O-rings should come with your new filter and should be replaced with filter, 1 for the WIF sensor to fuel filter surface(small O-ring), and 1 for the fuel filter to fuel filter housing surface(Large O-ring). If that isnt what your looking for than please be more specific and I will try to help you out.

[Oil-Burner]

Awsome pictures with explainations. Thank you.

I will add too though, especially with the LMM's, that the grease is boo-koo bad if it gets into the injectors and the DPF. The burned grease smoke/soot can cause problems on the emission sensor crap.

Also, I see you used the "white" plumbers tape. When wraping threads for ANY petroleum based component, the "white" is a no-no.

For petroleum based and/or LP/natural gas pipes/tubing etc.... one needs to use the "yellow" thread tape. The yellow doesn't decay as does the white tape when prolonged contact/exposure with petroleum based chemicals hits it. i.e. Diesel fuel etc....

[Killerbee]

I agree. Teflon tape has no place in this simple procedure. The o-ring is your seal...these are not tapered threads, and being nylon, they don't require lubrication.

It was nice of you to post it though.