Today I managed to get another project out of the way. I got the fuel filter setup upgraded to spin-on filter assembly. I purchased a WIX filter base and filter from AMAZON.com. It had 1/2" NPT intake and output and 1-14" center stem. The WIX filter I got is rated 14 micron fuel/water separator. The cartridge in the stock fuel filter housing is rated 12 micron.
Since the fittings on the old filter housing do not fit the new one I had to find some fittings that would allow me to connect the existing fuel lines to the new filter housing. I went to NAPA but the local store does not have a good collection of fittings. I then tried a Heating A/C supply house but they did not carry brass fittings either. Went to Home Depot and found what I needed. Only glitch was I had to replace the connector on the copper line coming from the fuel tank with a flare fitting.
At this point I had already removed the old fuel filter housing from the truck. I Used a was to cut the copper line just behind the old fitting. I then used a pipe cutter to re-cut the copper line cleanly. I inserted the 1/2" flare nut over the copper tube. I pushed the fitting far enough so I could get the flaring tool attached to the pipe. Once I had the flare done I attached the 1/2" by 4" brass pipe to the new filter housing. I attached the flare adapter at the end of the pipe. I attached the copper tubing to the flare end. I then installed a 1/2" NPT by 5/8" flare at the output end of the filter base.
Once I had the fittings attached I was able to mark the drill holes of the filter base with the backing plate attached to the truck. Once marked I drilled the holes for the mounting bolts. I then mounted the new filter base to the truck. I had to remove one bolt that held the fuel hose clamp to the truck frame. Then I was able to get a little slack on the fuel hose to reach the new fuel filter housing. I connected the fuel hose to the flare fitting and tightened. I then filled the new fuel filter with fresh diesel and attached it to the filter housing. I tightened the clamp on the fuel hose to the frame. I started up the truck to test the new filter assembly. After 2 starting attempts the truck ran fine. I let it run a bit and all seemed well. No leaks in the new setup. Here are some pictures of the setup
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