Mopar Fuel Filters for the 6.7L Cummins Diesel Engine

The 6.7L Cummins engine, a powerhouse known for its durability and torque, is a common choice for heavy-duty Ram trucks. To ensure this engine runs at its best, proper maintenance is crucial, and a key part of that is using a high-quality fuel filter. Mopar, as the official parts brand for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram, offers a range of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) fuel filters designed specifically for the 6.7L Cummins.

The Importance of Fuel Filtration in Diesel Engines

Diesel fuel is not always perfectly clean. It can contain contaminants like dirt, rust, and water. In a modern common rail diesel engine like the 6.7L Cummins, which operates at extremely high pressures, these contaminants can be catastrophic. The fuel injectors, for instance, are precision components with very tight tolerances. Even a microscopic particle of debris can cause damage, leading to poor performance, reduced fuel economy, and expensive repairs. Water in the fuel is particularly damaging, as it can cause corrosion and rust in the fuel system.

The fuel filter’s job is to remove these harmful elements before they reach the engine’s sensitive components. Mopar fuel filters are engineered to meet the specific requirements of the 6.7L Cummins, ensuring optimal filtration and protection.

Mopar Fuel Filter Kits and Components

For the 6.7L Cummins, the fuel filtration system is often a two-stage process. This typically involves a primary filter/water separator and a secondary, more finely-tuned fuel filter. Mopar offers these filters as a kit to simplify the replacement process. The specific part numbers and configurations may vary depending on the model year of the truck.

• Fuel/Water Separator: This primary filter is often located on the chassis and is designed to remove larger particles and, most importantly, separate water from the diesel fuel.
• Fuel Filter: This is a finer filter, often located on the engine itself, that catches the smaller contaminants to ensure the fuel is as clean as possible before it reaches the high-pressure fuel pump and injectors.

Mopar’s fuel filter kits are designed as direct replacements for the factory-installed filters, guaranteeing a perfect fit and hassle-free maintenance.

Key Mopar Part Numbers and Compatibility

The Mopar fuel filter part numbers for the 6.7L Cummins have changed over the years. It’s essential to use the correct filter for your truck’s model year to ensure proper fit and function. Some common part numbers you might encounter include:

• For 2013-2018 models: You would typically find a kit that includes both the chassis-mounted fuel/water separator and the engine-mounted fuel filter. The part numbers for these can be found on many parts retailer websites.
• For 2019+ models: The fuel filter system was revised, and Mopar offers new part numbers for these later models. These kits are often sold as a set of two required filters.

When purchasing Mopar fuel filters, it is always recommended to verify the part numbers against your vehicle’s specific make, model, and year. Using a reputable parts dealer or the official Mopar website can help ensure you are getting the correct and genuine OEM parts. More info

Maintenance and Replacement Intervals

Regular replacement of your Mopar fuel filters is critical for the long-term health of your 6.7L Cummins engine. The manufacturer’s recommended service intervals for fuel filter replacement are typically found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. It is generally advised to replace them every 15,000 miles or as specified by the manufacturer. However, if you are using poor-quality fuel or driving in dusty environments, more frequent changes may be necessary. Neglecting to replace your fuel filters can lead to:

• Clogged filters, which can restrict fuel flow and cause a loss of power.
• Increased wear on the fuel pump and injectors.
• Potential engine damage due to contaminated fuel.

By using genuine Mopar fuel filters and following the recommended maintenance schedule, you can help ensure your 6.7L Cummins-powered Ram truck continues to perform reliably for years to come.

Mopar 6.7L Cummins Fuel Filter FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Mopar fuel filters for the 6.7L Cummins diesel engine.

1. How often should I replace the fuel filters on my 6.7L Cummins? The recommended replacement interval for the fuel filters is typically every 15,000 miles. However, this can vary based on your driving habits and the quality of the fuel you use. If you frequently tow heavy loads, drive in dusty conditions, or use low-quality fuel, it’s wise to change your filters more often. Always refer to your truck’s owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s specific recommendations.

2. Why does my 6.7L Cummins have two fuel filters? The 6.7L Cummins engine utilizes a two-stage fuel filtration system for superior protection. This system includes:

• A primary fuel/water separator filter: This filter is usually mounted on the chassis near the fuel tank. Its main purpose is to remove larger particles and, most importantly, separate water from the diesel fuel.
• A secondary fuel filter: This finer filter is located on the engine and catches smaller contaminants before the fuel reaches the high-pressure fuel pump and injectors.

This two-stage system is designed to provide the highest level of protection for the engine’s sensitive fuel system components.

3. What are the Mopar part numbers for the 6.7L Cummins fuel filters? The part numbers can vary depending on the model year of your Ram truck. You should always confirm the correct part number for your specific vehicle. Some common Mopar part numbers include:

• For 2013-2018 models: You’ll typically need a kit that includes both the primary and secondary filters, such as Mopar part numbers 68197867AB (water separator) and 68157291AA (engine-mounted filter).
• For 2019 and newer models: The system was redesigned, and the part numbers changed. A common kit includes 68436631AA and 68157291AA.

4. Can I use an aftermarket fuel filter instead of a Mopar OEM filter?
While many reputable aftermarket brands offer filters for the 6.7L Cummins, it’s crucial to be cautious. The 6.7L Cummins has a very sensitive fuel system, and using filters that don’t meet the precise OEM specifications can lead to problems. Counterfeit or low-quality filters may not have the same filtration efficiency, potentially allowing contaminants to damage your injectors or fuel pump. For maximum peace of mind and to protect your engine’s warranty, many owners choose to stick with genuine Mopar or other well-regarded OEM-quality brands like Fleetguard (which is a Cummins brand).

5. How much does a Mopar fuel filter change typically cost?
The cost of Mopar fuel filters themselves can vary, but a kit containing both filters usually ranges from approximately $100 to $170. If you have a dealership or mechanic perform the service, labor costs will be added. You can often save money by purchasing the filters yourself and performing the replacement, which is a common DIY task for many truck owners.