Generator Fuel Filter

[VTSweetpea]

Has anyone been able to change the fuel filter for their generator w/o removing the generator from it's compartment? It just looks impossible on my 2001 Concourse (Onan ky model genny). Quick search on this forum didn't reveal any secret way to do this but I thought I'd ask.

[chin_k]

I have not need to do it, but watching a few youtube videos on the task, it does not look like we have to remove it out of the compartment. What make you think that it is necessary? By removing it, I don't see how it is going to help because you still need to work with the front opening to get to it, correct?

[VTSweetpea]

chin_k I've attached pics of my generator. One is standing back so you can see the genny and its' compartment. Number two shows the area around the air filter. The fuel filter is at the far rear bottom corner of this area- not even visible in this pic. Pic number 3 is a little closer and if you look real close you can vaguely see one end of the fuel filter peeking out behind the fuel pump. So the fuel line comes in thru the bottom rear left corner of the generator casing where it then attaches to the fuel filter. I can get one hand in to just touch the filter and that's it. I see no way to get at that bad boy w/o yanking the genny out! But I sure wish somebody would prove me wrong.

Fuel filter just barely apparent in area to rear and above bright red wire terminal

Fuel filter not visible -but lives in that shady area behind the red wire terminal

Broad view of generator compartment

[chin_k]

OK, I think I can see two possible issues.

If you watch this video, you can see the fellow was able to get access to the fuel pump and fuel filter in his rig without pulling the genset out.

The first step is to remove the solenoid, which sit on top of the control board.

Now, he skip one important step in the video. There are two torx screws in the lower left corner of the genset, and you need to remove it to get the control board out. This is the second step. I can see that it is going to be difficult to get it removed, since there is not much space between the screws and the back of the rig's wall. You maybe able to get a 1/4 inch torx bit and use a 1/4 ratcheting wrench to get in there, but I am not sure.... If I have to do it in the future, I may have to use a pair of locking pliers to take them out, and replace them with those with a Allen socket so that I can remove them in the future at an angle.

Another possible complication is to disconnect the fuel filter from the fuel line. I don't think it is easy to access the connection in the back of the genset enclosure, so I hope there is enough slack in the fuel line to pull it into the case, and disconnect it there.

Here is an video where there is an easy access to the back of the genset: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0g4hJvNd9gQ

And this fellow was able to pull the genset out of the rig, and you can see how all the parts are lay out:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gutZQAq5Trc

[VTSweetpea]

chin_k I tip my hat to you sir! If our Chinooks ever cross paths, I owe you a coffee and a donut! For whatever reason, my You Tube search didn't turn up the vid that you did. Obviously tho, it IS possible to change that filter w/o removing the genny. Granted a bunch of things have to be removed to get to it, but at least now I know it can be done. It also makes sense to do the fuel pump at the same time. I have saved the video and will rewatch it in the spring when I get ready to tackle the filter change. I think I'll do the fuel line at the same time while I'm at it.
Again greatly appreciate your help.

[dougm]

I installed an inline filter before the fuel pump under the truck to filter out most of the crap prior to being pushed threw the filter on the pump itself.

[chin_k]

Doug, do you have a picture of the installed external filter? Want to know where is a good location for it under the rig. I assume you just cut the fuel line and insert it.

[dougm]

Yes i just split the rubber hose and clamped the filter in. I will check if i have any pictures. Wasnt something i considered photo worthy however so if i have a pic it will be completely by accident.

[dougm]

This is only pic i have. You can see i have the generator out and was installing the air suspension. Note: i no longer use a large diameter filter like the one in the picture. I switched to a smaller diameter to eliminate any issues the pump might have sucking fuel into the larger diameter filter.
Also my exhaust tailpipe had to be redone account the suspension so my tailpipe exits further forward than yours probably does.

main reservoir.png

[chin_k]

Doug, can you explain what is your rationale to change to a smaller diameter filter? Not understand why it would make a difference. Sorry for the high jacking the thread.