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lemjim's avatar
lemjim
Explorer
Jan 24, 2014

Onan 7.5 Diesel fuel filter change out

When changing out the fuel filter could there be a problem getting air into the system, I Have changed my main engine ( Cat ) many times with no problem by pre filling wiith fresh fuel, I have never changed out the gen filter though.

Thanks for the help , Jim
  • I recently changed my filter out. I have the same genset you do and I had no issues with it starting right up!
  • It has an electric pum so it won't start til it has fuel in the filter. It's kinda like magic. You can't se it but it stil happens. I love my 7.5, so quiet when not fuly loaded you can't tell it's running.Don't forget Onan diesel owners, excercise your generator once a month. It is better for it and boils any moisture out of the engine.
  • "lemjim".....there won't be any issues restarting the Onan, but their fuel filter can be a bear to service.

    You need a fuel line wrench, I'm brain farting on the name of it right now, but it's basically a box end wrench with a small slot cut out so you can slip the wrench over the fuel line. The fuel line fittings are soft and can be easily rounded with a regular wrench. I believe it's 7/16" and can be purchased at any auto store.

    There is a bolt holding the fuel filter down. Loosen the fuel lines before removing the bolt and then remove the bolt and disconnect the lines.

    Once the filter is out, there will be fuel dripping. I have cone shape caps, like you cut off the end of a tube a silicone, that I use to plug the fuel lines while I'm moving the new one into place and starting one of the lines.

    Get both lines on and snug them. Bolt the filter back into place and then tighten the lines.

    Lastly, an old mechanic's trick is to tie a rag around both wrists while doing the work. This will absorb any fuel running down your hands and onto your arms.

    Remember, NEVER use a "trouble light" when working with fuel unless it's a sealed unit.
  • Sounds like a stinkey mess, think I better wait till I'm clear of the park I stay in for this winter or take it to a shop if I can find one here in Yuma, Az

    Thanks, Jim