3116 Cat fuel filter change

[The Bill Collector]

I'm going to change my Cat 3116 filters this weekend and just want to confirm approach:

Use the Cat primer pump (I know one of mine leaks)
or
Prefill from a jug and start with full throttles to clear any air (risk of contaminated fuel if not filtered)

I just want to confirm there isn't also an option to start full throttles with a dry filter. Some of the comments are unclear.

I have always used the primer pump to fill my newly installed fuel filters.

Others here pour freshly filtered fuel into the filter and install it on the engine.

 

[Strecker25]

I have always used the primer pump to fill my newly installed fuel filters.

Others here pour freshly filtered fuel into the filter and install it on the engine.

I use the primer, if it's quiet you can hear the fuel returning to the tank. Last year they were stubborn so I cracked the vent screw and pumped until clear fuel spilled out. Usually they idle rough for about 5-10 seconds then smooth out

 

[fwebster]

I'm going to change my Cat 3116 filters this weekend and just want to confirm approach:

Use the Cat primer pump (I know one of mine leaks)
or
Prefill from a jug and start with full throttles to clear any air (risk of contaminated fuel if not filtered)

I just want to confirm there isn't also an option to start full throttles with a dry filter. Some of the comments are unclear.

No!

You can use the Cat priming pump but if it leaks, you are going to make a mess. I would never start a Cat engine with the throttle at full throttle position because there is no need to add that level of wear to the starter, ring gear, fuel pump, etc. you should buy about 1/2 gallon of clean diesel fuel from a source that filters the fuel they pump. Next, fill the new filter to the brim with the fuel from your container of filtered fuel. Install the new filter on the filter base according to the instructions on the filter. Then, return to the helm and move the throttle lever to about 1/2 throttle position and depress the starter switch and hold it………The engine will begin to try to fire up ….as it begins to run, gradually retard the throttle, but. if the engine misses and stumbles, keep the engine running by increasing the throttle setting until the engine smooths out and stops missing.

Using this method you probably won't exceed 1200-1500 rpm and engine will self purge any air you get in the system.

 

[bbwhitejr]

I have Cummins 6CTA engines and had Cummins 500 QSCs in the previous boat. I have always filled filters very carefully with good clean fuel following Frank’s instructions and never once had an issue.

However, as dtfeld indicated, there is more than one way to do this.

Bennett

 

[yobub]

Thanks. All went smoothly. I didn't even have to bump the throttles, both engines just started up and ran well.

 

[dtfeld]

I’ve tried all the afore mentioned options. I prefer using the primer pump if it’s not leaking like a sieve. The CAT primer pumps will make a huge mess if they are leaking.

You can do as Frank suggests, or you can replace the primer pumps if leaking, not too expensive or very difficult.

 

[mrsrobinson]

For those that fill the filters with fuel, is diesel at a gas station the same, better or worse than diesel at the dock with a filter I can see? I filled her up for the first time recently and checked, they had a massive filter. I do not see the same at a service station for cars/trucks.

 

[bbwhitejr]

I have always filled from a gas station and never an issue. Also use same to top off the Racors after changing filters. Some say it is a sin, but never had an issue….

Bennett