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Topic: Primary Fuel Filter Question (Read 557 times) previous topic - next topic

Primary Fuel Filter Question

1993 U280, Cummins C8.3 300HP.  Trying to accumulate my "Spare Filter" collection.  My chassis manual (and Beamalarm.com) list the RACOR S3202 as the originally fitted primary fuel filter.  This is a simple spin-on metal case filter, attached to a frame-mounted base which is located in the "start battery" bay, passenger side behind the rear tires.  My coach is currently fitted with a Baldwin BF5800 spin-on metal case filter on the factory base.  Looking at the Baldwin product line, I see they offer a BF5813 filter, which fits the same base, and has the added benefit of a drain valve on the bottom of the filter case.

Should I purchase the original (RACOR S3202), the "plain-jane" Baldwin BF5800, or the "Fancy" Baldwin BF5813?  Or is there another even better alternative?  Thanks for any ideas.
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: Primary Fuel Filter Question

Reply #1 –
Doesn't much matter personal preference, some folk like to crack the drain a bit (engine off) from time to time to see what comes out. I just change mine once a year.
Bruce, Linda, and Macy
Zoey RIP 1/20/19
1999 U295 40' build #5400
2017 silver Jeep Wrangler, 1260 watts of solar on top
Moving around the country

Re: Primary Fuel Filter Question

Reply #2 –
It's always best to have a drain valve on the primary filter.  It only takes one load of fuel with water to prove this point.
Regards,
Brett

'99 42' Foretravel Xtreme
'14 Brown Motorsports Stacker
'05 Chevy SSR
'02 BMW R1150R

Re: Primary Fuel Filter Question

Reply #3 –
And in addition to the drain, if you can find one with a clear bowel to fit your filter head, then you can tell at a glance if there in any contamination in the filter. By far my favorite for a primary filter (on the suction side of the lift pump).

Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Primary Fuel Filter Question

Reply #4 –
Brett,

Do you know the manufacturer or part number for a spin-on replacement filter that has a clear bowl?  I would like to stick with the existing filter base (which I assume is OEM) for sake of simplicity.
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: Primary Fuel Filter Question

Reply #5 –
No, but you can certainly contact Parker-Racor for their recommendation.  Knowing what solid metal filter fits that base, they should be able to tell you what your options in a filter with separate clear plastic base are.

Racor 800/344-3286
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Primary Fuel Filter Question

Reply #6 –
Brett,

Thanks for the number - I just called.  Turns out the original factory fitted filter (RACOR S3202) is exactly what I need.  Looking at the Racor-Parker catalog photo, I thought it had a plain rounded "bottom" end.  Actually, it is open on the bottom, and is designed to accept a clear bowl with drain plug provision.

The factory tech recommended I purchase the Racor B32002, which is a complete filter + bowl assembly.  Thanks again for the lead!
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: Primary Fuel Filter Question

Reply #7 –
Chuck you can also use the Fleetguard FS 19520.
The selected media item is not currently available.Bill&Doris 97 U270 36'
University of Parris Island Class of 66
Semper Fi  Build# 5174 MC#17094