2000 Dakota fuel filter

[berna4406]

I have a 2000 Dakota with a 4.7 about 95,000 miles on it and it still runs well.I have kept up with the general maintenence on it except for the fuel filter.Dealer ship want $450 dollars for it said it comes with the fuel pump as an assembly.I need to replace my filter but don't want to spend that kind of money.Has anyone else gone thru this?Autozone,Napa those guys said dealership item only.Does someone have one out their?
Thanks Sam

[mopar rt]

The filter I thought came separate from the pump?? You do need to drop the tank to replace it. In either case $450 sounds very high.

[stev98312]

Here's some wording cut and pasted from my 2004 Service Manual CD.

" FUEL FILTER/PRESSURE REGULATOR DESCRIPTION
A combination fuel filter and fuel pressure regulator
is used on all engines. It is located on the
top of the fuel pump module. A separate frame
mounted fuel filter is not used with any engine.
Both fuel filters (at bottom of fuel pump module
and within fuel pressure regulator) are designed for
extended service. They do not require normal scheduled
maintenance. Filters should only be replaced if
a diagnostic procedure indicates to do so. "

In other words: Wait 'til the Check Engine light comes on, and have your fuel filters replaced because it's on the list of things to change for whatever caused the light to come on.

I don't know if your 2000 is the same, but from the illustrations in my Service Manual, the fuel tank has to be removed from the vehicle for access to the filter(s).

That's why the cost is so high.

[Ben]

I was wondering about that, my 04 dak has it in the tank and I was thinking it could get real pricy changing it every 30k like they call for.

[razman131]

to change the filter ya do have to change the pump and all that comes with it. have to drop the tank or take off the bed(actually easier). keep using good clean grade fuel, tank additives and ya should have no probs.

over 113K on my original filter and counting. :woowoo: