How to Replace a Fuel Filter on a 2002 Dodge Ram
by Baptist JohnsonUpdated November 07, 2017
Items you will need
Gloves
Protective eye wear
Adjustable wrench
The fuel filter on a 2002 Dodge Ram is an integral component of the fueling system. It is located on top of the fuel tank so you need to disconnect the gas tank to replace it. The fuel filter is needed to help ensure that gas sent to the fuel injector is clean and free of particles. Over time, the fuel filter can become clogged, causing damage to the engine of your vehicle.
Park your 2002 Dodge Ram in a safe location on even ground. Apply the parking brake to prevent your vehicle from rolling.
Relieve the fuel filter pressure by disconnecting the fuel pump relay from the power distribution center. The power distribution center is located near the battery compartment underneath the hood of your truck.
Attempt to start your vehicle. Your engine should not start. However, if your engine turns on, allow your car to idle until it runs out of gas. Turn your ignition off.
Crawl underneath your Dodge Ram and locate your fuel tank. Remove the fuel tank using an adjustable wrench by disconnecting the mounting bolts that are around the fuel tank mounting straps. Lower the fuel tank and find the fuel filter inside of the fuel tank.
Disconnect the fuel filter from the fuel line by depressing the quick-release tabs located on either side of the filter. Remove the hex nuts that connect the fuel filter to the fuel tank mounting bracket with an adjustable wrench. Take the old fuel filter out and set it aside.
Replace the old fuel filter with a replacement fuel filter. Place the new filter into the fuel tank mounting bracket and secure it using an adjustable wrench and hex nuts. Reconnect the fuel line to the fuel filter by snapping the quick-release tabs over the fuel filter.
Raise the fuel tank and secure it into the mounting brackets on your vehicle frame. Reconnect the fuel pump relay to the power distribution center.
Tips
For a 2002 Dodge Ram, try using an AC Delco fuel filter with part No. GF861.
Warnings
For your safety, wear protective eye goggles and gloves when changing your fuel filter.
Writer Bio
Baptist Johnson was first published in 2000 when a poem he wrote won first prize in a local writing contest. He also writes and edits for Etched Press Society, a micro-publishing company based in Wilmington, N.C. Johnson has a Bachelor of Science in business administration from East Carolina University.
