How to replace a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)

Is there smoke or exhaust fumes coming out of your exhaust pipe? If yes, there is a possibility that the filter is damaged. In this article, we will do easy troubleshooting and see how to replace a  DPF housing segment and or filter.

Safety First!

Ensure that you take all safety precautions, wear the correct PPE, and adhere to all the safety protocols. Ensure that the vehicle is in a well-ventilated area and also check that there are stop blocks in place, before operating the vehicle.

Determine where the Smoke or Fumes are coming from

Filter Housing Inspection and Replacing Segments

Remove the DPF filter housing by loosening the bolts on both sides of the filter. If there is a leak between the filter housing segments, you will see black soot residue on the filter housing.

By removing the v-clamps, you can split the filter into segments. Inspect the gasket and if it is damaged, replace the gasket. We recommend using OEM gaskets or something similar and that they are replaced once the filter is opened.

Inspect both flanges of the DPF segments. If the flanges are damaged, replace the segments that has been damaged.

Reassemble the filter housing and tighten the bolt on both sides of the filter clamps. There is a slight possibility that the v-clamp was loose. If every step is done, but there is still a leak on the housing unit, contact John Ratcliffe.

Filter Inspection and How to replace a DPF Filter

Remove the DPF filter housing. Remove the last v-clamp on the filter (the clamp closest to the outlet side of the filter). Remove the outlet segment of the filter and remove the filter itself. Wash the filter with high pressure water and inspect the filter unit.

If there is a hole in the filter unit or burnt metal lumps, you will then need to replace the filter. Contact John Ratcliffe for a quote.

Remove the gasket from the filter and the outlet segment of the filter, inspect both gaskets. Remove the wire mesh and check the wire mesh.

After buying/receiving the new filter:

1. Remove inlet and outlet segments.
2. Install the gasket over the filter.
3. Slide the filter into the filter housing.
4. Install the second gasket on the outlet side of the filter.
5. Place the outlet segment on the filter unit itself.
6. Install wire mesh from inlet side.
7. Install inlet segment.
8. Put the v-clamp over the two segments and tighten both sides of the clamp.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to inspect the components and the DPF filter unit, you will know what to look out for. Have a safe and successful working experience. For any queries, call the experts at John Ratcliffe.