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2011–2024 Ram 5500

2011-2024 Ram 5500 — Fuel Filter Replacement

🔧🔧 Moderate 45-60 minutes

Quick Video Tutorial

Parts You Need

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Total Cost
$0.00
Part Name Part Number Price Buy
Fuel filter (2011-2024 Ram 5500 6.7L Cummins) — —
Fuel filter housing O-rings (if not included) — —

💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully

1

Prepare and Locate Filter

Park your Ram 5500 with the 6.7L Cummins on level ground, set the parking brake, and turn off the engine. The primary fuel filter is located on the driver's side of the engine. Allow the engine to cool and gather a new Mopar or equivalent fuel filter, a drain pan, and basic hand tools.

2

Drain the Filter Housing

Place a drain pan under the fuel filter housing to catch spilled diesel. The 6.7L filter housing has a drain valve; open it to drain fuel from the housing before removing the filter. This minimizes spillage when you open the housing.

3

Remove Old Filter Element

Unscrew the fuel filter housing cap using the appropriate socket. Lift out the old fuel filter element and inspect the housing for sediment or water contamination. Clean the inside of the housing with a lint-free cloth if debris is present.

4

Install New Filter

Install the new fuel filter element into the housing, ensuring the O-rings are properly seated and lightly lubricated with clean diesel. Thread the housing cap back on by hand to avoid cross-threading, then tighten to specification. Close the drain valve.

5

Prime the Fuel System

Prime the fuel system by cycling the ignition key to the ON position (without starting) for 30 seconds, then OFF. Repeat 3-4 times to allow the electric lift pump to fill the filter housing and purge air. This step is critical; skipping it causes extended cranking and potential injector damage.

6

Start Engine and Check for Leaks

Start the engine and let it idle, checking the filter housing for any fuel leaks. The engine may stumble briefly as remaining air purges. Take a short test drive, recheck for leaks, and reset the fuel filter life monitor if equipped.

All Done!

Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • • Not priming the fuel system after filter replacement, causing hard starting or stalling.
  • • Cross-threading the filter housing cap, leading to fuel leaks under pressure.
  • • Using a non-OEM filter that doesn't seal properly in the 6.7L housing.