Dropping a fuel tank for any kind of service or install can be a massive headache. Thankfully, for those looking to install a new drop-in fuel filter assembly from Fleece Performance for their 6.7-liter Power Stroke the job can be done with the tank in place and without a lift. Removing the factory lower fuel filter block does requires patience and a solid understanding of how the original lines connect, however. ARod from Power Stroke Tech Talk tackled this process on camera to give guys a realistic look at how it’s completed.
Breaking The Factory Connections
Reaching up past the passenger-side framerail, the first major hurdle involves disconnecting four original lines. Builders face a tight squeeze by leaving the driveshaft in place, forcing them to work strictly by feel. Before pulling anything apart, you can twist the plastic connectors to break the stubborn rubber seal trapped inside the ports. Pushing the release buttons often proves difficult since rocks and dirt pack tightly into the factory housings.
Prepping For The Fleece Kit Installation
Applying steady pressure to the locking tabs requires a small flat-blade screwdriver to pry the safety clips loose. Once those colored clips slide up, pressing the release buttons finally allows the lines to slip free. The diesel stops from spilling all over the concrete by plugging these disconnected hoses with small rubber caps. After unscrewing a single T30 Torx bolt, the dirty plastic block drops right out of the chassis.
Assembling The Upgraded Components
Preparing the new American-made billet aluminum block requires attaching the fresh filtration parts before sliding back underneath the truck. To create a highly capable secondary filtration setup, the Fleece setup utilizes a Wix clear water bowl and a heavy-duty Donaldson filter. The bench assembly finishes quickly after snapping a fresh sensor into the bottom of the bowl. Next, applying a light coat of silicone jelly to the metal ports helps the factory hoses slide on smoothly.
Wrapping Up The Garage Project
Bolting the upgraded metal assembly to the framerail only takes a few minutes using the supplied hardware and a basic socket set. The four plastic hoses lock securely onto the new block once the installer hears a distinct audible click. Pushing the factory skid shield back into its original place using the stock trim clips wraps up the entire process. As a DIY project, completing a Fleece kit installation in the driveway simply takes basic hand tools and a willingness to get dirty.
