Safety glasses
Nitrile Gloves
13 mm Socket
Ratchet
Strap Wrench or Large Channel Lock Pliers
3-4 Foot Hose
Fuel Filter
We will be changing the fuel filter on this 2001 F250 Super Duty 7.3 liter diesel, and the procedure will be similar for a lot of F250s from 1999 to 2007, but be sure to know the specifics for your truck before getting started. If you’re not completely comfortable doing this yourself, we’d be happy to recommend a professional technician in your area.
Step 1: Access the Fuel Filter Housing
Start by parking on a level surface and opening the hood.
Use your 13mm socket and ratchet to remove the two 13mm nuts securing the engine cover.
Remove the cover so you can access the fuel filter housing underneath.
Step 2: Drain the Fuel in the Housing
The fuel filter housing drain can be accessed under the truck behind the front passenger tire. Connect one end of the hose to the drain tube and put the other end in a container that can hold at least 16 ounces and is safe to receive fuel.
On the back side of the fuel filter housing is a drain release lever. Turn the lever clockwise to release the fuel.
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Do It Right: Check local laws for instructions on fluid disposal. |
Step 3: Remove the Old Fuel Filter
Once the fuel has been drained and the pressure is relieved, loosen the fuel filter cap with a strap wrench or pliers by positioning the jaws in the notches of the cap.
Remove the fuel filter cap and filter. Place the filter in a drip pan to avoid extra cleanup in case the filter drips excess fuel. Depending on the type of fuel filter that was previously installed, the fuel filter and cap might be one piece or two pieces. If the cap is separate, be sure to save it in case you need it for the new filter.
After the fuel has drained, close the drain lever. Remove the hose and fuel drain container.
Step 4: Install the New Fuel Filter
Coat the smaller O-ring with diesel fuel. The new fuel filter should come with new O-rings, so make sure they’re included.
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Do It Right: O-rings are exposed to high heat, and lubricating them can help keep them from sticking to the housing and make them easier to remove during the next filter change. |
Install the smaller O-ring on the plastic part of the filter.
Coat the larger, beveled O-ring with diesel fuel.
Set the larger O-ring around the fuel filter housing.
Install the new fuel filter into the housing and screw down the fuel filter cap. If the fuel filter and cap are one piece, keep the cap in case you need it in the future.
Step 5: Test for any Leaks
Turn the key on for 30 seconds, but don’t start the engine. This will prime and cycle the fuel pump. Check for any leaks. If you don’t see any fuel leaking, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for leaks again, and once you’re sure there aren’t any, shut off the truck and close the hood.
