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If you are someone who doesn’t care about water leakages and poor water retention in your combustion engines, then you shouldn’t read ahead. However, if you care about your internal combustion engine and its optimal functioning, then it’s important you understand how a fuel filter works. It is the most important structural element, and it directly affects your vehicle but more on that later.
This review not only highlights some of the best Duramax fuel filters in the market but also includes an excellent buying guide to help assist you in your decision.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Duramax Fuel Filter
- OUR TOP PICK: ACDelco TP3018 Professional Fuel Filter with Seals
- RUNNER-UP: iFJF TP3018 Fuel Filter
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: iFJF 1R-0750 Fuel Filter
Comparison Chart of the Best Duramax Fuel Filters
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What is a Fuel Filter, and How Does it Work?
A good Duramax fuel filter is essential for the right functioning of your product. Its main objective is to prevent abrasive resins and impurities that harm your vehicle. These might emerge due to the vast amount of chemical reactions that occur inside the fuel line in your combustion chambers. Diesel fuels have very high paraffin content, which can often crystallize at negative temperatures. Once these particles hit the engine, they often cause more harm than good.
A good fuel filter, therefore, not only supplies but also transfers clean fuel to the engine cylinders, thereby enabling combustion that, in turn, produces power. This is also responsible for metering the right amount of fuel and therefore delivering the fuel to the injector assembly at the precise timing. The fuel filters are also responsible for cooling, cleaning, and lubricating your vehicle.
Are All Fuel Filters The Same?
Fuel filters are not all the same. There are huge differences between diesel fuel filters and normal fuel filters. These often include differences in shape, price, and the general working of the filter. Fuel filters usually come in the form of a cartridge, whereas those diesel often look like a bowl. Fuel can move through multiple films in order to clear the particles and other contaminants from the fuel.
Diesel fuel filters are usually made of a basin, and they come in a curved shape. Water is collected at the bottom of the bowl. There’s also an open bowl that allows the water to simply drain from the basin, thereby leaving the basin only. On the other hand, fuel filters come with greater efficiency and prevent the leaking of water from the engine. Another difference between the two is in regards to maintenance. Diesel fuel filters demand more maintenance and hence are difficult to manage sometimes.
How to Choose a Quality Fuel Filter
Once you have established how the fuel filter works, it’s now time to ask ourselves the most important question. With so many in the market, how do we know which one is the best one? This is definitely difficult to answer, but not once you have read our thorough list highlighting the top features of a fuel filter.
Gaskets
These are extremely important as they often determine the quality of a fuel filter. A manufacturer can use sealing elements. These practically do not react to fuel activity. The shape of the gaskets is, therefore, important and should be properly aligned. Fake filters that often dominate the market do not come with proper gaskets. They often lack them at the hose connection side of the filter.
iFJF TP3018 Fuel Filter
Filter Element
The quality of the filter element is another important feature to consider. If you go for an insertion filter, its quality can be accessed independently. The material used for the filter can be rigid and dense at the same time. A good filter element also provides solidity, which then ensures that it lets diesel fuel through it well and thereby eliminates any excessive pressure on your pump.
Packaging
Although the packaging doesn’t directly affect the working of your product, it is still important. There are so many fake products in the market, and it is important that you can differentiate between them. This is where packaging comes into play. A serious manufacturer is more likely to spend money not only on the product but also on the way it looks. It will come with the proper company logo and the name in bold format. This will not only help you identify the original products but will also assure you of the reliability of the model.
Review of the Best Duramax Fuel Filters
It’s hard picking out only a handful of products when you have so many amazing models in the market. But we were adamant on picking only the most incredible ones. So to help you keep your combustion engine alive and make the best possible decision, we have highlighted the pros and cons of some great Duramax fuel filters.
Best Overall:
ACDelco TP3018 Professional Fuel Filter with Seals
PROS
PROS
What Recent Buyers Report
This model stands tall and proud among all others, mainly because of its superb features. Recent buyers are also extremely impressed and have termed it as the best overall model for their combustion engines. This is because the ACDelco is known for its higher compatibility with most engines. This certainly gives it an edge over all the other fuel filters in this review.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A fuel filter is supposed to remove any contaminants, whether big or small, from your combustion engine and no product does this job better than the one we have here. It not only removes abrasions from the engine but also hinders the inclusion of any paint particles. This helps keep your engine clean and, in turn, increases the overall efficiency of the whole vehicle.
Who Will Use This Most
With the perfect fit function and form, this model already comes with good compatibility. This not only makes it suitable for a range of combustion engines but also makes it more convenient. Its smooth construction gives it high durability but also high flexibility. Together, these 2 features ensure a better mechanism. It also provides a quality alternative to all the unbranded aftermarket components.
Bottom Line
ACDelco parts have long appeared in more than 2 million GM vehicles every year. This makes it a reliable model with better efficiency, but that’s not all. Fuel filters parts are specially manufactured to meet the specific needs of form and function. This not only offers it higher compatibility but also offers greater value for your vehicle.
Runner-up:
iFJF TP3018 Fuel Filter
PROS
PROS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers have long been devastated by fuel filters that face outward. These aren’t only difficult to install, but their repair and replacement are also very time-consuming. The iFjF is one such model that is not only of the perfect size but also has the perfect form to assist your combustion engine. The direction of all the fuel filters is the same as the OEM parts, and they have gone through rigorous testing, which has made it a suitable fit for all consumers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Smooth construction is and should be the first prerequisite of accessing any product. This fuel filter comes with a perfect aluminum screw set, which is better than plastic. These can be easily installed and removed. Plastic screws that have been used for a long time aren’t only time-consuming, but they often become soft and wear off. Aluminum screws are much better as they promise longevity and continuation of efficient performance.
Who Will Use This Most
The model has high compatibility with models ranging from 2001 to 2016. This covers a lot of new and old vehicles like Cheviot, Silverado, and GMC Sierra engines. But you can also use this with any latest vehicle you buy. Unlike most other models, this doesn’t need constant repair and maintenance. So you can wait a significant amount of time before you have to replace this fuel filter.
Bottom Line
With high efficiency and less maintenance requirement, this model is already making rounds in the industry. It comes with a spectacular multi-layer design, which not only improves the efficiency of the product but ensures that it can complete its filtration task easily. Moreover, it also has whooping water efficiency. This, coupled with its easy removal and installation, makes it one of the best models in the market.
Best for the Money:
iFJF 1R-0750 Fuel Filter
PROS
PROS
What Recent Buyers Report
Products that offer spectacular features at a relatively lower cost seem more appealing to recent buyers and potential customers. This fuel filter ticks all the right boxes and has won over buyers easily. It not only offers better compatibility, but its lightweight and compact design also makes installation easy. This feature also ensures that the model can trap the most minute and tiny contaminants easily.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The model is known for offering higher flow rates and superior filtration efficiency. This is made possible by its premium filtration media, which is also a noteworthy feature that stands out to us. This ensures the water is not leaked from the engine, and higher retention can be made possible. Not only this, but this fine filtration model also comes with a nylon center tube, which further adds to its efficiency.
Who Will Use This Most
Higher compatibility is one of the many features of this fuel filter, which makes it useful for people possessing a range of vehicles. The fuel filter can work well with any vehicle manufactured after 2001. This is because these vehicles are more advanced and come with better combustion engines. They are also more spacious and hence allow for easy installation of the filter.
Bottom Line
With high flow rates and excellent filtration media, this product is already in the limelight and for all the good reasons too. It is also lightweight and compact, which makes its installation and removal quite easy. Not only this, higher water retention and less leaking also makes it a desirable fit for models manufactured between 2001 and now. All of these features are further complemented by the relatively cheaper cost of the fuel filter.
Best 2008 Duramax Fuel Filter:
6.6 Duramax Diesel Fuel Filter with Seals
PROS
PROS
What Recent Buyers Report
We did a bit of a review check on the product and only found positive reviews regarding this fuel filter. Everyone seems to get on board with the price and functions that this 6.6 Duramax diesel fuel filter has to offer. The high-grade filter medium with a multi-filter system adds up to be the perfect product for the job.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out to us for its exceptionally well-managed and high-grade filtration medium within this price range. Moreover, the anti-corrosive housing on the filter ensures a long life span and removes the need for regular maintenance. The leakage resistance sealing components safeguard the fuel and assure an uninterrupted supply of fuel to the engine.
Who Will Use This Most
We have provided a list of engines to which this Duramax filter can be used in compliance with. It can be best used for 2001-2016 Chevy Silverado, 2012-2016 Chevy express, 2001-2016 GMC sierra, and 2012-2016 GMC Savanna. Moreover, its multi-layer filter provides higher efficiency for both old and new models.
Bottom Line
This Duramax filter breaks the charts for its exceptionally well performance under such a tight budget. Having multi-layer filter and leakage preventing sealing components, it becomes the most desirable option for users. Last but not least, the long life span wins the game for careless and un-industrious consumers.
Best 2017 Duramax Fuel Filter:
iFJF TP1015 Fuel Filter
PROS
PROS
What Recent Buyers Report
We scoured the internet to find reviews so that you won’t have to; most of the users have posted a positive review as the product fits their needs. The lower price range and specs this duel filter offers is what tipped off the reviews to the positive side. The longevity of the filter is another aspect most people praised as it only requires filter material replacement and not complete product replacement.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stood out in our testing because of its 5 micron filter that ensures a detailed cleaning of the fuel before it reaches your engine and offers maximum protection from contaminants. Also, the filter comes with a filter kit and easy to understand installation steps for your ease. This comes in handy because with this installation kit; you don’t have to buy equipment separately.
Who Will Use This Most
Any filter that does not work with most combustion engines is bound to fail in the market. This is because consumers need to have a reliable model for their vehicles. This Duramax fuel filter is compatible with Chevrolet; Cruze 2014-2015 2.0L, Cruze 2017-2018 1.6L L4, Silverado 2500HD 2017-2018 6.6L, Silverado 3500HD 2017-2018 6.6L and GMC; Sierra 2500HD 2017-2018 6.6L , Sierra 3500HD 2017-2018 6.6L .
Bottom Line
Not only is this product inexpensive, but it also offers a long durability rate because of the easy maintenance routine. In the end, the most important thing is the quality of the work and the fuel it provides to the engine, and it’s safe to say that this fuel filter provides maximum quality filtration. Because at the end of the day, you probably don’t want to get stuck with a fuel filter that isn’t good at what it does.
Best Cat Duramax Fuel Filter:
Caterpillar 1R-0750 Advanced Fuel Filter
PROS
PROS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers were a little apprehensive about this product at first, mainly because of its lack of a separator. But when they used this filter and found it to be efficient and strong, their views certainly changed. One thing that we found consistent amongst the product reviews was its praise for 2 micron cellulose filters.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We judge a product for the quality of its operation. Caterpillar fuel filters always baffle us with the quality of their product, specifically the genuine 2 micron cellulose filter that works perfectly within the system and delivers the highest quality filtration. Moreover, its better form makes it highly compatible with most vehicles.
Who Will Use This Most
Caterpillar has not yet set a particular audience for its fuel filter, but it works the best with any truck that works on a Duramax engine. It can be adapted to fit any engine, either Chevrolet Cruze or Silverado, and even GMC sierra. Moreover, it comes with efficient screws that are easier to install and remove and do not wear off.
Bottom Line
While it is a little expensive in regards to its market competitors and a little heavyweight too but understand that it is a registered brand with a brand name within the market that’s respected. The genuine CAT cellulose filter is not a common feature, and due to its high efficiency and optimal functioning mechanism, it is really appealing to most consumers.
Best 6.6 Duramax Fuel Filter:
TP1015 Professional Fuel Filter
PROS
PROS
What Recent Buyers Report
The views of the consumers on different products vary from negative to positive based on their personal experience and qualities they think are necessary for the product's functionality. The users found the 5 micron filter extremely functional with their engines, and the fuel filter replacement kit was a step in the right direction by the manufacturers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
As we have stated earlier, the most important thing that matters to us is the quality of the filter and how much cleaner fuel it transports to the engine. The 5 micron filter on this fuel filter not only gives off the best filtration, but it also does not pose any hurdles in fuel transportation. Moreover, its improved seal mechanism also adds to both its performance and its appeal.
Who Will Use This Most
Users whose truck is adorned with Duramax engines can be subjected to use this professional fuel filter. The audience is not limited to the TP 1015 professional fuel filter. The best thing about it, which appeals to vehicle users, is that it doesn’t require replacements or repairs very often. Moreover, these fuel filters are also easy to maintain, which is another plus point.
Bottom Line
This product is on our list because it is one of the best ones out in the market. Manufacturers not only catered to the issue of durability of the product with its fuel filter replacement kit but also provided a fuel filter that works exceptionally all within an affordable price range.
Best Racor Duramax Fuel Filter:
Racor 2010SM-OR Fuel Filter
PROS
PROS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers couldn’t be happier with the performance of this fuel filter. They have unanimously agreed that this is one of the best filters that ensure the removal of all contaminants from the engine. It also prevents paint particles or other small particles from penetrating the filter. Moreover, buyers have also praised the higher water retention that it offers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The model is known for many things, but the most noteworthy feature has to be its better filtration subtlety. This is an extremely important feature to consider and is often overlooked by most consumers. It is the exact parameter that influences the fraction size of your filter. Racor is able to come up with 2 micron filter rating, which is excellent for most latest models.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are looking for the best Racor Duramax fuel filter, then you have come to the right place. Equipped with the latest technology and a better flow rate, this fuel filter is already proving to be a perfect fit for models ranging from 2001 to 2019 models. It works perfectly well with the previous models too, but since the combustion engines of those are slightly outdated, you might have to replace your fuel filter more often with old vehicles.
Bottom Line
With so many exceptional features all incorporated in one single model, it is hard to pick any other fuel filter. The Racor Duramax not only delivers on all its promises but also provides consistently good performance. Unlike other models, it does not only require less maintenance, but its efficiency also makes installation easier. Moreover, if you are looking for good filtration subtlety, then this model is the one for you.
What Do I Need To Know Before Buying?
Fuel filters are certainly a new thing in the market. Although they have existed for a long time, it is only recently that they have garnered so much attention from people. With a greater number of manufacturing brands in the market, it is becoming increasingly hard for people to access knowledge. So to keep it short, here is all you need to know before you buy your next fuel filter.
Manufacturers
Although we continuously advise that you shouldn’t only trust the brand's name or trust its face value while deciding to buy a product, here, we’ll certainly mend our ways. When it comes to fuel filters, you should look for manufacturers that have a good repute in the market. These not only offer good quality but also greater reliability.
Cost
Cost evaluation is also imperative in this decision because, more often than not, people simply buy products because they are the cheapest in the market. This can be catastrophic as cheap fuel filters often result in low-quality products and lead to less water retention. They often don’t come with the appropriate size of the gasket, which is an additional drawback to functionality.
Caterpillar 1R-0750 Advanced Fuel Filter
Filtration Subtlety
This is the exact parameter that will determine the fraction size of your filter. This is also likely to be nicely retained once you insert the filter. In the case of a gasoline vehicle, this filtration subtlety should be around 10 microns, but in case of a diesel vehicle, it could be around 5 microns.
Purification Degree
This will display the number of elements that your filter can hold easily. It is also measured in percentages. For example, if the model of your filter is extremely good, then the parameter of it would be around 98 to 99%.
Construction
Any filter that promises to offer you durability and flexibility should be made with a dense and rigid material, and its quality should be super solid. Since any filter is made up of multiple elements, it is also important that all these parts are nicely glued together with each other.
How to Change Fuel Filter on a Duramax
Like most other products, fuel filters might require changing too every now and then, although with our list we promise the frequency is going to be really less. To help you follow the steps of fuel filter changing, here are some directions.
- You need to park your vehicle in a well-ventilated area. This is important, and you will soon find out why.
- Next, you need to turn your steering wheel in a clockwise direction until it fully stops. This will position your front
wheels to the very far right position thereby making it easier to reach your fuel filter through the front opening. - Then you need to turn the engine off and open your hood. Next, you need to prop it up whilst also locking the rod. Then you need to reach through your front passage side wheel and carefully remove the plastic guard from the rear of well.
- The plastic guard is connected with small plastic clips that can also be pried off the holes on your guard with the help of a screwdriver.
- You need to then pull off the guard of the wheel well and place it nicely on the ground. Your fuel filter is now accessible and quite visible too.
- The next step requires you to locate the water sensor on the bottom of the filter. Then follow the wires that are with the water sensor. Then comes unplugging of the water sensor plug.
- Now, you have to position the drip pan carefully under the truck in the area of your filter. Next, you need to slide the fuel filter strap wrench and turn in a counter-clockwise direction.
- Move to the top side of your engine and pull out the fuel filter from the engine compartment. Then pour the excess diesel into your drip pan.
- Then you need to fill the new fuel filter with fresh diesel and lower the fuel filter through the engine compartment.
- Move back to the front passenger side wheel and screw the filter onto the housing. Then turn the filter clockwise to tighten it.
- The last step is to tighten the fuel filter with a strap wrench and turn the fuel filter one half to properly seat the filter.
For a more detailed step-wise instruction, follow this video below.
Conclusion
When choosing the best fuel filters, one should look for technical parameters and engine brands, but they should definitely take reviews into account too. Our review not only talks about the most prominent brands in the market but also highlights their specific features. This includes their price, weight, durability, and other notable features. If you want greater water retention and great optimal functioning, then it would be wise for you not to choose the most prominent brand. Instead, you should compare all these fuel filters and see which one best caters to your needs.
People Also Ask
We have tried to answer all your queries above, but no single review can possibly cater to all these questions. But to ensure you find everything you are looking for here, we have decided to answer some of the most frequently asked questions by you.
Where is the Fuel Filter on a Duramax?
The fuel filters that we use are located on the passenger side of any engine. This is below the air intake tube. You need to remove the center air intake tube to see this. This is between the air filter housing and the turbocharger mouthpiece. You can also access it by removing the inner fender beside the passenger side.
How Do You Drain the Water Out of a Duramax Fuel Filter?
This has been discussed in detail in one of the above sections, but we’ll still provide a summary to help you out. You need to open the bleed screw that is located at the top of your fuel filter housing. Then you need to drain the water separator into a suitable container and dispose of the fuel. Then you need to simply drain the valve and remove the hose.
When to Change Fuel Filter on Duramax?
This is a very subjective question and does not really have a definite answer. But according to GM, you should replace the fuel filter after every 15000 miles usage. This is applicable to models from 2001 to 2010. For models between 2011 and 2016, we recommend a limit of 22500 miles.
How Long Does a Fuel Filter Last?
A fuel filter can last for a very long time, considering it is maintained well and properly drained. However, to ensure good and optimal functioning of your filter, we recommend that you change it after every 2 years or after 30000 miles usage. On relatively newer models, this interval can last significantly longer. The best way to know whether your filter needs replacing or not is to have a mechanic check it out for pressure.
