Question Sputtering engine

[airdrew99]

I currently have 167,000 miles on my F-250. I was driving through town today accelerating from a stop to about 40mph. When I reached about 30mph, the engine RPM dropped to idle and sputtered for 3-4 seconds. I have 1/2 tank of fuel. It only did it that one time and hasn't done it again. I can't remember how long ago I changed the fuel filter. The truck had 136,000 miles when I bought it. So my question is: How often do you guys change your fuel filter? Also, there is only one filter to change correct? I'm thinking my filter has about 25,000 miles on it. What else could have caused the sputtering? Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Oh, I did have the CPS changed under the recall about 2 years ago.

Drew

 

[DaveBen]

You have about 30,000 miles since you got the truck. It is time for the fuel filter to be changed. Check for water in the fuel bowl at the same time.

Dave

 

[airdrew99]

On my 2000 F-250, the only fuel filter is the one under the hood on top of the engine, right?

 

[DaveBen]

As far as I know. I know you don't have the one down by the driver's side frame rail.

Dave

 

[BIG JOE]

On my 2000 F-250, the only fuel filter is the one under the hood on top of the engine, right?

Right. Unless the PO installed an additional filter.

As far as I know. I know you don't have the one down by the driver's side frame rail.

Dave

Right. If the Po DID install another filter.. it would most likely be along the D-side frame rail somewhere. Purdy obvious to find & see.. If there is one.

After this filter change ?? It's every 15K MAX.. from now on. Yer fuel pump & injectors need Clean, Free Flowing, at Pressure.... fuel, to operate properly.

Joe

 

[WD40]

You for sure need a fuel filter change. You are one lucky dude to run one that long.
Get the poor truck a new Motorcraft Fuel filter, it will love you for it.
Doug

 

[airdrew99]

I had trouble removing the cap for the fuel filter. Of course the 1/2" drive just chews up the hole. So I'm posting a picture of the method I used. I actually used a long pry bar for leverage instead of the screwdriver seen in the picture. It made it very easy to remove using this method. I tried the Motorcraft filter, but I removed the old one and realized that the cap had the pre-filter/screen molded to it. So I had to change the cap and filter this time.

Drew

 

[Frankenstien]

... Or you can use the Oil filter wrench, providing its the "Band" type..... And unless you bought the Truck new, you should check by the Frame rail to see "IF" some one may have added a pre-filter. It would be just (in most cases) prior to the Fuel pump. Near the Drivers door.

 

[dpantazis]

dont forget the pickup screen in the tank. it can get plugged up with jung/goo even though the fuel tank is poly.

also check your fuel pump fittings. they are the quick disconnect type. they CAN and WILL suck in air,leading to the same condition that you are describing, an airlocked fuel system and rough running.

 

[airdrew99]

How is the pickup screen accessed? Is it a simple job? Does it take any special tools?