I am new to the diesel world and just picked up my '05 Ram 3500 4x4 with the 5.9L HO Cummins Turbo; and am confused. Where exactly is the Fuel / water separator drain vavle located? From the Owner's manual (which I feel is quite lacking) it appears to be on the left side (driver's side) of the engine slightly aft of mid-way with a clear tube running down from it, am I correct?
Also, I intend to follow the manual recommendation of draining " a small amount" from the fuel / water separator at each fuel fill-up; what defines a "small amount" and when / how do I know that my efforts have been successful?
Should I attempt to collect the fuel sample as it drains or just let it run out? Finally, should I be concerned about losing the engines prime?

Thanks in advance for all the info. I have been lurking around the Forum for the last week and I really enjoy all the good info. I have already learned allot.

Rick

In three years of owning my truck i have never seen the water in fuel light come on on the dash. I wouldn't worry about it. As long as you get your diesel fuel at a reputable place, it shouldn't be a concern. If it makes you feel better, draining some at every oil change would be more than safe. As far as how much to drain, watch the color of the fluid coming out. Water will drain first, then the diesel.

My truck has 6k miles on it and I haven't bothered to look at the fuel filter or the water seperator. Planned on doing it the next oil change about 10k miles.

Just drive it, it's a heavy duty truck made to run. I bought mine so that I wouldn't have to do a lot of maintainence. Hope you enjoy your new machine.

Hawkster and Big P,

Thanks for the insight.

Ginzu