How to Replace the Diesel Filter on the New Generation Transit?
4 Answers
New Generation Transit diesel filter replacement requires specific methods. Replacement procedure: Turn the old filter in the opening direction by hand to remove it. Align the new diesel filter with its seat and turn it in the closing direction to install. Disconnect the fuel pipe joint connected to the engine, open the fuel tank cap. One person uses an air compressor hose to pressurize the fuel tank through the filler neck, while another person waits until diesel flows out from the pipe joint before reconnecting it. Start the engine and stop air pressurization. After starting, let the engine run at medium speed. Filter element: Filters impurities, metal particles, mechanical contaminants and oil oxides from the fuel, maintains oil activity, removes most impurities from the fluid, keeps reserve fuel clean, and purifies circulating oil before it's delivered to moving parts surfaces.
I just changed the Transit diesel filter myself, here's the step-by-step: First prepare new filter, wrench and rags, warm up the engine then shut it off to reduce fuel pressure for safety. Open the hood and locate the black cylinder near the engine - that's the diesel filter, loosen the drain screw to remove accumulated water. Use a belt wrench to turn the old filter counterclockwise, catching any leaks to keep the engine bay clean. After cleaning the mounting surface, apply a thin layer of oil to lubricate the new filter's seal ring, hand-tighten first then give half a turn with the wrench. The most crucial step is bleeding air! Remove the vent screw on top of the filter, use the priming pump repeatedly until fuel flows steadily without bubbles, tighten it then start the engine to check for leaks at idle. The whole process takes less than half an hour. Regular diesel filter changes protect the high-pressure fuel pump and avoid major overhauls.
Veteran drivers have their tricks when changing diesel filters: always operate on a cold engine to avoid burns, and keep a 12mm socket in the toolbox. After locating the Transit's diesel filter, handle residual pressure by disconnecting the battery terminal to cut off the fuel pump's power for added safety. Using a homemade strap wrench makes removing the old filter effortless—just remember to place oil-absorbent cotton underneath to prevent contamination. Always use genuine replacement filters to ensure proper fit, and pre-fill the new filter with clean diesel to wet the filter media. The key step is bleeding air: manually pump the primer 20 times until fuel lines feel firm, then rev the engine twice to verify proper fuel pressure. Finally, seal the used filter in a plastic bag for proper disposal to avoid environmental pollution.
Replacing the fuel filter is actually not difficult. Here's how I do it every time: After parking, wait 10 minutes for pressure release, then locate the round metal canister on the right side of the engine. Prepare a 19mm open-end wrench to loosen the drain valve at the bottom for waste fluid collection. Unscrew the entire filter canister counterclockwise and ensure the new filter model matches exactly. Before installation, clean the O-ring groove on the base with diesel fuel, then screw the new filter in until the gasket fits snugly. After replacement, air must be purged - loosen the top nut to activate the fuel pump and stop when continuous fuel flow appears in the hose. Finally, start the engine and listen for smooth operation without vibration to confirm success. Note: In winter, perform this operation indoors to prevent diesel waxing.
