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BGR · 05-13-2014, 10:33 PM

We recently purchased a new to us 03 Itasca Horizon with a Cat 3126/Freightliner. The rig only has 25K on it, but it has a sketchy maintenance history with little records so I'm doing whatever makes sense to start the clock over on things.

One thing I'm not sure about is the fuel filter. I believe it has a single filter in front of the radiator, an Alliance ABP-32FRT03 which I'm guessing is original. If there's another filter I can't find it.

What is the recommended change interval for this filter? I would think 25K is below the replacement interval, but it is a 10 yr old rig and like I said, I don't know the full history. Would it make more sense just to carry a spare?

Also, I thought this filter/water separator would have clear bowl on the bottom, but mine looks dark. What's the proper procedure for examining the water level in it and emptying it?

Rook · 05-14-2014, 03:06 AM

Similar chassis......my coach has two fuel filters, one small one on the top front of the engine next to the prime pump (access by raising the bed) and the main large one in the 2nd bay from the rear, drivers's side. The black thing on the main filter bottom is the water drain knob. Manual says to check for water after each tank of fuel....open the drain, drain a little, catch in a container, check for water....drain until no water, just fuel. Close drain. So far, I've had very little water. Rook

wb7auk · 05-14-2014, 07:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BGR

We recently purchased a new to us 03 Itasca Horizon with a Cat 3126/Freightliner. The rig only has 25K on it, but it has a sketchy maintenance history with little records so I'm doing whatever makes sense to start the clock over on things.

One thing I'm not sure about is the fuel filter. I believe it has a single filter in front of the radiator, an Alliance ABP-32FRT03 which I'm guessing is original. If there's another filter I can't find it.

What is the recommended change interval for this filter? I would think 25K is below the replacement interval, but it is a 10 yr old rig and like I said, I don't know the full history. Would it make more sense just to carry a spare?

Also, I thought this filter/water separator would have clear bowl on the bottom, but mine looks dark. What's the proper procedure for examining the water level in it and emptying it?

The fuel filter needs to be a 2 to 4 micron absolute rated and changed every 10,000 miles or 1000 gallons of fuel used.
Unless you get some bad fuel then it will need changing early.
For information: a absolute rated filter is not the same as a normal rated
filter.

Selah · 05-14-2014, 08:12 AM

Just my opinion so,take it for what it's worth. With sketchy maintenance records I would take to to Freightliner for a complete check, change, and adjust. All filters, brakes, ride height, oil and coolant test to make sure engine is ok, lube, wheel alignment, etc. Yes it's going to cost a bit but you will now know the status of you coach and begin a regularly scheduled maintenance. Some times peace of mind is worth the cost. This will also help should you decide to sell at some later time.

t55watson · 05-14-2014, 08:22 AM

Doing a re-boot of all maintenance is a good idea. I am on my 3rd used DP and have done that on them. I change my fuel filter every second oil change. I don't put enough fuel through it to do it on a fuel used basis. That may be overkill but it is peace of mind at a cheap price.

wb7auk · 05-14-2014, 08:31 AM

As suggested a bumper to bumper inspection and all fluids and filters so you have
a base line to work from.

mel s · 05-14-2014, 09:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BGR

What is the recommended change interval for this filter? I would think 25K is below the replacement interval, but it is a 10 yr old rig and like I said, I don't know the full history. Would it make more sense just to carry a spare?

BGR
My 3126 Cat uses 2 fuel filters.
I change them at every oil change, (every 8-10,000 miles).
Because a bad tank of diesel, which I have read could possibly ruin my day, I've always carried spare filters, (but have never needed them).
Mel
'96 Safari, 3126 Cat, 132k miles

BGR · 05-14-2014, 11:24 AM

Great advice all, thanks. I like the idea of a bumper-to-bumper inspection. I'm trying to do some of the work to offset costs and I've already serviced the cooling system (had to replace the cracked surge tank), oil change and air filter. Fuel filters are next. The rest I'll let a shop do.

mel s · 05-14-2014, 11:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BGR

Great advice all, thanks. I like the idea of a bumper-to-bumper inspection. I'm trying to do some of the work to offset costs and I've already serviced the cooling system (had to replace the cracked surge tank), oil change and air filter. Fuel filters are next. The rest I'll let a shop do.

BGR
In time you will realize that no one cares about your coach, (or does as good work on it, or inspects it as thoroughly), as you.
Mel
'96 Safari, (mine for 14 years)

1ciderdog · 05-15-2014, 02:59 PM

My 2004 has only one filter and it is the one you have. I change it at about 5000 miles which may be to often. The bowl should not be dark. You probably should do as others suggest and do a full service including transmission.