Sunday, February 24, 2013

Fuel Filter Changes

         We get a lot of questions about how often fuel filters should be changed and in some cases we do not get any questions because people just choose not to change filters. We recommend that you change your fuel filter no less than twice a year regardless of miles and hours. Spring and fall are good times to do this if you use this rule of thumb. This interval is fine for older fuel systems but our recommendations for common rail fuel systems is to change them every oil change or 4500 miles on light duty diesels such as the Duramax, PowerStroke or Dodge/Cummins. On Ag and industrial common rail systems we would recommend every oil change or 100 hours.
       Common rail fuel systems are very vulnerable to fuel contamination and it doesn't take much to ruin an injector or high pressure pump. Fuel filters will cost anywhere from $20.00 to $65.00 depending on what you are driving but a set of injectors could set you back $3500.00. So isn't it worth a little prevention?
        We also recommend a good fuel additive be used at all times such as Stanadyne All Season Performance formula. It has a lubricity additive in it that will aid in keeping your fuel system components in good condition for a long time.
         You can always contact us with any questions! dieselspecialties.com.