How to Prime After Running Out of Diesel Fuel in a Ford F250
by Allen MooreUpdated July 29, 2023
Fill the fuel tank with diesel fuel and diesel fuel lubricity additive. Raise the hood of the car. Open the top fuel filter housing with the socket set. Depending on the model year and engine type, the filter housing may be located in several places; however, you will most likely find it near the oil filter housing, marked accordingly.
Pour diesel fuel into the filter housing until the fuel reaches the bottom of the threaded area where the filter cap attaches.
Reinstall the filter cap, taking care not to pinch or bind the O-ring.
Close the hood and climb into the driver's seat. Leave the driver's door open.
Turn the ignition key to the "Run" position and listen for the fuel pump to start and stop. This should take about ten seconds. Turn the key to the "Off" position when you hear the pump shut off. Repeat this four more times and then start the truck.
Tips
- Motorcraft offers a lubricity additive, which is available at all Ford dealers. You can also check with your local auto parts retailer for aftermarket options, but make sure that the product you purchase clearly states that it is compatible with your Ford model, year and engine.
Things You'll Need
- 5 gallons of diesel fuel
- Diesel fuel lubricity additive
- Socket set
- 1 quart extra diesel fuel
Warnings
- Do not try to start your Ford diesel before priming the fuel system. Doing so can lead to excessive battery drain and potential battery failure.
Writer Bio
Allen Moore's career includes awards in poetry and creative fiction, published lyrics, fiction books and nonfiction articles as well as a master certification in automotive service from the Ford Motor Company. Moore is a contributing writer for RF365.com and various other websites, a ghostwriter for Rainbow Writing and has over a dozen works of fiction currently in print.
