RAM Cummins front and rear Fuel Filters Replacement - A little bit different way?

I like to do things a little different. I'm always looking for an easy way. I'm a slacker. Did I discover a better way? Nahhh, probably not. But different, yes. A few things to consider when changing the fuel filters. Not necessarily better but different.

[@bucky1996]

9/25/23. I have your videos bookmarked so I can review anytime as a refresher before preforming maintenance /repairs that you have covered. Your channel just keeps on giving! Thanks again!

[@IndianaFr0g]

Quick shout out to Marion Blair. Your overview of doing the filter replacements helped me tremendously for my first ever change. It was MUCH easier that it looked from your videos (we'll call it old man hands... ;-) ) and I contribute that to being familiar with the steps and tools needed. ( I also got a monster socket). Thanks again. Now for a oil change!

[@edwardnelson3304]

Thanks Marion always a pleasure to get your insight on taking care of these truck's. Love Light and Blessings to you.

[@MarionBlair]

Thank you

[@bucky1996]

Thank you! My change is coming up shortly. I will watch this video again just before I start. Keep em coming!

[@bucky1996]

Update on my filter change. Watching your video made a world of difference in my confidence level. I got everything ready as you outlined. I fully primed and flushed the new filters using a simple jumper wire to fuse 70.This was such a great tip! Ran a full gallon into my plastic jug. (I poured this in my tractor fuel tank). The engine did crank for about 15 seconds or so before catching but no problems afterwards. I noticed your truck pretty much fired right up. Not sure why mine seemed to crank that long. Just getting some air out of the lines I suppose. Thank you again for your videos!

[@MarionBlair]

Got lucky I guess.

[@aldirnagl2193]

Appreciate you sharing your knowledge. Pleasure following your instructions which make things easier on me.

[@MarionBlair]

Thank you

[@ruckinehround6965]

Thank you for all your Cummins videos.... more than very helpful. God bless

[@InLineDiesel6]

While I have done this filter change several times, I watched the video just because I enjoy you. I also energize F70 with a PowerProbe (I don't remove the fuse) to recharge the fuel system but I do not drain the front filter while recharging.

[@MarionBlair]

Thanks for that, As long as the ignition is off, the relay contacts should be open. I think you've proved they are, thank you.

[@kevincameron8437]

I’ve been using a 4.5’ filter wrench for the rear filter. And yes, the rear filter takes a little upward pressure to get the threads to catch. I change my filters about 20K and all is good. Thanks for sharing.

[@jessequentin4441]

I also feel pretty comfortable letting the filters go till 20K... then again I do want the cleanest fuel possible going through that high pressure pump and all those injectors! With all the sensors and computers on modern vehicles you wouldn't think it would be too much to ask for differential pressure switches across the filters...

[@markphilpott8735]

Well Sir, I finally got off my lazy arse and changed the fuel filters on my 17 3500 Ram Cummins. It was just a little over 15k miles. Pretty much did it the same way in this video. As a former diesel mechanic I thought it was a relatively easy task. One thing that did surprise me was after jumping the transfer pump circuit, how fast the air purged out the drain hose. Back in the day, nobody installed filters dry, even when they had primer pumps and the factory recommended to install filters dry. It's really the best practice so as to avoid fuel system damage from dirty fuel. Keep up the good work and thanks.

[@MarionBlair]

Thank you very much

[@jeffreymicholas8670]

Great job again !!! Just a heads up I have a 16 with 60000 miles on it. Bought it new , use it for towing my 12000 lb 5th wheel. After our last camping trip I started hearing some clunking noise. It was the lower tie rod that loosened up. It’s a one piece unit (450$) for OEM part. I installed an after market unit that is serviceable, has grease fittings and is made of heat treaded chromoly steel for the same price from a company called Synergy suspension systems out of CA.

[@MarionBlair]

Thanks. I'll keep an eye out.

[@Jeff-fs3rn]

Great video. Thx for putting these up. I would advise 1/2 drive extensions and u joint... Just broke my 3/8 joint trying to get lid off. Switched to 1/2 extensions and u joint, went much smoother. Also, at 5'8" tall, I wish very much I was 6'4" with the longer arms that come with that. Thx for the great content. Also, my version of changing these filters includes a lot of colorful language. :)

[@AD-zy5gr]

Great information!👍

[@cheeseymccheese7249]

Good stuff Marion, Thanks!!

[@MarionBlair]

Appreciate! thanks.

[@LukesGarage]

If so, I’d like to see one cut open. Great video as always. I purchased a ‘18 and I only have 3500 miles on it so far. But I have binge watched your videos.

[@MarionBlair]

Appreciate that. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aIaXi5aKms2ahdE see this video at 8:45. I cut one open

[@rvdogfl]

Great video I need to change mine and I will try some of your tips.

[@MarionBlair]

Thanks

[@TCB031]

Thanks for the video Marion, my 2016 is due for the filters to be changed in August. The worst part for me is unclipping and reclipping the dang wire on the rear filter. In your previous video, it looked like you were in our neck of the woods at Lake Lanier. Appreciated the drive through.

[@MarionBlair]

Yes, beautiful county and the Corps campsites are awesome. Yea, that little wire clip is a pain. 5 mins of figuring it out then 1 second to disconnect it.

[@TCB031]

@@MarionBlair If I'd known you were there I'd have come by and got you to autograph my truck! :-)

[@MarionBlair]

@@TCB031 That made me laugh, thanks.

[@jessequentin4441]

Great videos Marion, thank you. That purge really worked! I always have to crank it twice for two seconds (as per manual) before it fires. And also I hate that plastic filter housing on the front filter! Plastic threads and plastic nut, you just can't get a good feel for it. "...am I squishing the O-ring or overtightening the threads??" I guess that's why you just use a torque wrench and call it good.

[@MarionBlair]

Yes, I get that same feeling. Geno's makes a metal cap which a lot of people like. www.genosgarage.com/product/dodge-ram-cummins-replacement-cummins-billet-aluminum-fuel-cannister-cap/fuel-filter-housing

[@jessequentin4441]

@@MarionBlair Wow, thank you! I am going to seriously consider that filter cover. Thanks for taking he time to share that link! And also I can't say enough how much I appreciate your videos. You put in all the work and we just sit back enjoy the benefits. Thank you!

[@gunfreak565]

Changed mine for the first time on my 2018 just a couple days ago. Has 9,800 miles on it. The front was the easy one for me. The rear, next time I’m gonna drop the drive shaft. Don’t know why but that was just a pain for me to get to the rear.

[@agliem1]

Perfect timing with the video my friend. I’m doing my filters tomorrow on my 2017 Ram. I’ll try the fuse trick as well.

[@MarionBlair]

Great. good luck but you won't need it. Thanks for the feedback.

[@Running_To_Something]

Nice video Marion!

[@MarionBlair]

Everyone should check out your channel, you've got some good stuff.

[@Running_To_Something]

@@MarionBlair Thanks. Appreciate it.

[@geraldinegranado3386]

Thanks, i knew there was a 2nd one but idnt know where. Mine is 2003 5.9.. im guessing rear fuel filter is in the same as a newer model.

[@timberwulf3897]

Thank you again as always!

[@stihl29]

Another great video Marion. Very informative and will using some of these techniques next time I change my fuel filters. You're so fanatic about the upkeep and maintenance of your truck I'm curious of your thoughts about the EGR system and the effects it may or may not have on your engine. Have you ever considered doing any deletes to your truck? Would love to see a video of your thoughts / pros and cons of certain deletes and what things you'd hypothetically delete first. Have learned a ton from this channel keep em coming!

[@MarionBlair]

Thanks much. I have considered delete as my truck is out of warranty. I don't like any of the emissions stuff but I'm afraid we have to live with it. If and when I do, I certain do a video. I'll look at possibly doing one on the delete vs non delete. Good but sensitive topic, ha

[@herculesinwyoming]

I change the rear first, start the truck, do the front filter 2nd and it fires right up .

[@sac_colorado7215]

Marion, what were you using to apply 12V to the fuse tap? Thanks again, I enjoy watching and listening to your videos. 2017 Ram 3500 cummins with Aisin transmission.

[@walterk1221]

He used a "Power Probe" looked like a Power Probe IV.

[@MarionBlair]

Yea, what Walter K said, only Power Probe 3. Must have a newer model now. Paid $55 on Amazon. You can do the same thing with a piece of wire however. The pump draws about 8 amps I believe. See this video for mode info on it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bojUh6aXg9B9g8U

[@gerardjoseph5572]

Great video! For the first timers can you include the portion of lubing and installing o-rings?

[@MarionBlair]

Yes I can, thanks for the suggestion. Just lube with some (any) motor oil will be fine.

[@ryanspenser4300]

Hey have you seen those ez oil drain plug systems from Genoa’s Garage? Femco drain valve is what they are called. Just wondering if you think they are any good.

[@MarionBlair]

I've had one for years but can't bring myself to install it. I once had a piece of metal knock a hole in my oil filter on my motorcycle and I'm kind of afraid of anything hanging down. But a lot of people use them.

[@alfonzooliviera1121]

You can buy the perfect 3/8 28mm at Genos. I don’t use any extensions at all and just go ratchet to socket, including when I use my torque wrench to give it 22lbs.

[@MarionBlair]

You are probably stronger than I am, ha. Geno's was selling 29 mm for this at one time. I've got two of them that are paper weights.

[@walterk1221]

@@MarionBlair the 29mm are for the '00 until changed ('10 I *think*) filter.

[@Mr.Beastforpresident]

Marion, what tire pressure gauge you find works best so that not much air is lost when checking? I believe Michelin just came out with a new one. Can you link the one you like best?

[@Mr.Beastforpresident]

Michelin just posted this video July 17,2019 kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnW2cmyfoZh-Z9k

[@MarionBlair]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5_VgXmNp797bbc These are my favorites. The Craftsman has a little beep which is nice. A comparison of the Craftsman MS4376 vs the Michelin MN-4535B. Two of the better gauges I have owned. Let me know what's your favorite gauge. www.amazon.com/Craftsman-Programmable-display-batteries-included/dp/B00443ZNOM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1537489446&sr=8-3&keywords=craftsman+tire+pressure+gauge www.amazon.com/Michelin-MN-4535B-Digital-Programmable-Gauge/dp/B006Y7QR6E

[@CLTNY1]

Can you re-use that diesel by putting it into your home furnace oil tank?

[@MarionBlair]

I'm not a northerner but I'm pretty sure it'll work fine.

[@savannagarcia-tracy9248]

What kinda tool did you use to apply 12 volts to fuse 70?

[@MarionBlair]

Power probe III, see my video for more info on draining the tank from the fuse box

[@raulquesada1754]

i changed both fuel filters at the same time and i had a hell of a time to start the eng, should i change 1 filter nd start the eng? 2-8-20

[@MarionBlair]

No just turn the ignition on and off till the lift pump stops and it should run. If not you can use the purge meth I used in this video.

[@carlvin8693]

How would i find out what size socket fits front fuel filter on 2018 ram 2500, 6.7 diesel

[@MarionBlair]

28 mm

[@matthewpernat3088]

Great video, do you use diesel fuel treatment? Highly recommended it.

[@MarionBlair]

No I don't use anything in the fuel or oil. In my older diesels, I used to put a little marvel mystery oil or some outboard motor oil but with all the emissions stuff, I've been leary to go against the manual's advise. Although, the local dealer sells some mopar OEM treatment stuff in the accessory department so it's probably ok.

[@headdown1]

@@MarionBlair I really enjoy your videos. Cummins for the first time not only allows, but actually recommends Diesel Kleen fuel additive. I have a 2017 3500 with a 100 gallon fuel tank in the bed. The float had gotten sticky, and would only return to the 90 % mark, then 80%. It had been at 80% even when the tank was full for the last year. Ten minutes after filling the tank and adding Diesel Kleen, the float was free and reading correctly. I have used it ever since.

[@jakethesnake9528]

Would you mind do a video on changing the transmission fluid?

[@MarionBlair]

Yes I'll be doing one eventually. A lot of people are asking for it

[@jakethesnake9528]

@@MarionBlair Thanks a million Mr. Blair!! Really appreciate your work and effort.

[@24sevvin]

Great videos! What voltage tester is that?

[@MarionBlair]

Power Probe III www.powerprobe.com/web-store-1/p5fjvq2kzjttivtwpnbtd06fdcokqz

[@MrCquixote]

how are you pushing power to your fuse box? what is that tool?

[@MarionBlair]

Power Probe kzbin.info/www/bejne/bojUh6aXg9B9g8U

[@Police19005]

I have one too, I notice you let the gas tank all most empty, I fill it up when reach 1/2 tank.

[@MarionBlair]

Yes, you are right, I let it get lower than normal, I was leaving for Atlanta and topped it off the next day.

[@Fireguy1962]

Hey Mr. Blair, on a different subject, have you ever thought about a bypass oil filter system for the Cummins? I’m going for it just because I’m a little picky about my truck and I want the best conditions for my truck.

[@walterk1221]

I would NOT do that. It adds unnecessary potential leak opportunities. If you are picky and your truck is out of warranty use a Fleetguard LF9028 oil filter.

[@MarionBlair]

Yes, I have. The downside is what Walter K mentioned.

[@matthewpernat3088]

No leaks on my by pass system, use a high quality amsoil system

[@walterk1221]

@@matthewpernat3088 I would not consider the Amsoil system, or any other that takes the "Mickey Mouse" approach of returning oil via a goofy oil fill cap to be "high quality". A high quality system would utilize one of the unused bungs on the block above the oilpan to return the bypassed oil. There are several unused bungs for different turbo drain and different dipstick locations.

[@MarionBlair]

@@matthewpernat3088 Yea, I think if you use some high quality hydraulic pressure hose with proper installation it would be fine. I'd sure like to know ho effective they are.

[@OutpostCTD]

It would be nice if these trucks came with 2 simple spin on filters in the same location that was easy to access.

[@MarionBlair]

Agree, the front on the 5.9's was just that. They went backwards on that and lot more change for dirt to get in.

[@cashptx6921]

Is the two fuel filters and water separator the same?

[@MarionBlair]

No, the water Sep. is less micron. It catches the water and and bigger particles.

[@jefflane9430]

Sir, my Ram 2500 2012 Cummings fuel filter cap is just a bear to get off. Any advice on how to make it easier to get that front filter cap off?

[@MarionBlair]

28 mm socket. also try a strap wrench around the top cap but be careful you don't just started as it will make it more difficult to get. Also Lube the O-ring with some oil when putting it back. If you can get someone to pull on the wrench and tap the side at the same time that can help also. Just make sure you don't destroy the cap

[@jefflane9430]

@@MarionBlair I will try the strap wrench. I have a dedicated socket/exntender for it. It makes me nervous torquing on a piece that's all plastic. The whole housing is all plastic. Makes me nervous. Thanks very much sir for your reply. I appreciate your time and thanks for the great RAM 2500 diesel content.

[@MarionBlair]

@@jefflane9430 Also, make sure you have the drain open so there's no vacuum effect on the filter housing. Yes, it's a crappy design. I like the spin ons like the early 5.9's had.

[@jefflane9430]

@@MarionBlair I have an extension hose, but will likely do what you did and replace that little stubby hose from the drain altogether with a larger one. I always open the drain first and keep it open. It's just been a real bear - and something that the OEM filters are so cheap on ebay it's something I should be doing myself in 30 minutes, not the 3 hours I normally take. The truck hesitates less with a nice clean filter. I will go get a strap wrench today (I really should have one anyways). Many thanks for the tips - I appreciate your responding!

[@MarionBlair]

Did you get it off?

[@walterk1221]

For 2019 the frame mounted filter is no longer a spin-on. It appears to be very similar to the engine mounted filter except it is inverted. The cap is removed downward rather than upward. I will comment further after I have changed mine.

[@MarionBlair]

That would be interesting to know about, thanks.

[@skipnick]

That sounds messy

[@walterk1221]

@@skipnick not sure, the filter cap has the draincock... drain the housing versus drain the spin-on.

[@walterk1221]

@@MarionBlair as I promised, I just changed both filters on my 2019. The engine-compartment filter is identical to your truck; nothing more to add other than use of a topside creeper really made the access to the filter housing incredibly easy. I recommend anyone with a 4th generation Ram to consider purchase of one. Now, the rear filter is a difference and I am not sure I like the difference. As I previously mentioned, the spin-on has been replaced by a cartridge type filter. The element bears an FCA part number, no Fleetguard number. The appearance is the rear filter is not manufactured by Fleetguard. The housing is similar to the underhood filter housing but "upside down". The same 28mm socket is used. There is a draincock but either it is inadequate or I was impatient as I loosed a torrent of fuel. Anyway, the element came with the cap much like the underhood element from '00 model year until the underhood filter was changed for (I think?) '10 model year. New o-ring accompanied the element as expected. Installation was simple: click the new element to the cover, replace the o-ring and lubricate the o-ring. Carefully, to avoid cross threading, screw the cover/element onto the housing and torque to factory spec (22.5 lb-ft). Force the pump to operate a number of times to bleed the air. My recommendation is to have a rather wide pan in place to catch the fuel from the rear mounted filter. This filter, on 2019 Crewcab DRW is mounted to the crossmember slightly ahead of the rear axle and to the right (U.S. passenger side) of the driveshaft.

[@NickBeek]

What power probe do you use?

[@MarionBlair]

www.walmart.com/ip/Power-Probe-III-Circuit-Tester-Red/34224112?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=1235&adid=22222222227022644889&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=51812258831&wl4=aud-1651068665426:pla-83214447671&wl5=9025237&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=112354589&wl11=online&wl12=34224112&veh=sem&gclid=CjwKCAjwhNWZBhB_EiwAPzlhNivjWzso00m1w3bJ9wsoi1iL1ykWxF1hu8cACAvgNL_IuXjtRoE4NxoCDMQQAvD_BwE

[@davidspin5353]

1 1/8 socket 12 point with all my extensions... 2018 ram 5500

[@sting1111]

Old diesel makes an excellent parts and tool degreaser on the farm. ;)

[@supporterofsanity]

I got covered in diesel last fuel filter change. Must have got a vacuum lock or something, I thought the rear was drained but , no.

[@MarionBlair]

on the rear I noticed you really have to open that valve quite a bit before diesel starts running out

[@yerbeilisready8562]

He said 28 mm is that accurate or is it a 29mm?

[@MarionBlair]

It's 28 mm 6 point. Geno's sold 29 mm for a long time for this purpose so there may be confusion. I bought two 29 mm from them. With a tight cap, 29 will round off the nut and it gets ugly. Some use 1 1/8" but that's too big also.

[@gsxr419]

how many miles on that front filter?

[@MarionBlair]

A little over 13K

[@gsxr419]

@@MarionBlair Still looks really good.

[@skipnick]

We changed a ford 250 and the ram 250 back to back. Ford took about 10 minutes and almost no fuel spilled or wasted and no handling of raw filters. The ram had like 40 minutes of messing around. Definitely not the best design

[@MarionBlair]

Yea, I know what you mean

[@michaelprosperity3420]

Diesel sound like a pain. Oil change at 10k fuel filter at 15k so you gotta crawl under after your oil change in 5k miles. Don't overfill the DEF. These engines sound temperamental compared to a gaser. Why do diesels seem to take way more maintenance. Just wondering.

[@MarionBlair]

I understand your sentiments and agree to an extent. The diesel is more powerful and more reliable than the gasser. It's the only way to get massive amounts of torque. But, add the EPA emissions equip. and that's where the problems start. Oil change on the Cummins is 15K but I wouldn't do that unless I was a road warrior and I would also use synthetic. If you don't need to tow, don't bother unless you just really want one.

[@michaelprosperity3420]

@@MarionBlair Thanks that was helpful

[@tomahawksteak6672]

My dealer wants 500 plus tax to change the 2 filters . No thanks I ll do it myself .

[@Broncort1]

Can't you just dump the fuel back into the tank instead of "disposing" of it?

[@MarionBlair]

Yes you can, no problem as long as you keep everything clean