OhioLariat

As I was considering replacing my fuel filter, I inspected and found the following text ink-stamped on it:

DATE TESTED
K204FA PASSED

Note: Filter is Motorcraft

The filter looks pretty new, but almost nothing is rusted under this truck, so it's hard to say for sure. Before arbitrarily replacing it, I thought I'd see if anyone knows how to read that date code.

Thanks in advance.

Andy

RCButler

Each manufacturer uses a different method of coding. The FA I believe suggests a Fram fuel filter.
Here's where it can get confusing....

The K could indicate November since K is the 11th letter of the alphabet and November is the 11th month. It could also be what plant it was made at.

The 2 could indicate either February or, if using K as November, the second week of the month.

That would leave 04 as the year.
In any case that's when it was pressure tested.

How long have you had the vehicle and more important do you know when the filter was last changed? I'm old school, when fuel filters were attached under the hood and more often at the carburetor. I still believe in replacing them when I replace the air filter. They don't cost a lot though some can be a PITA to replace.

OhioLariat

Thanks for the reply, RC. It's a Motorcraft filter (I now realize I neglected to include that helpful tidbit of information), and I've been driving the truck for just about six months. I know it's "only ten bucks and a bit of time," but if this filter has only 5,000 miles on it, why waste the money? If I can determine what the code means, I'll know it can't be older than that. If not, I'll likely just change it out.

Andy

RCButler

Yeah that's true. 5000 miles isn't a lot on a fuel filter. I'd leave it and get it replace with the service at 25,000 miles or so.

When I worked parts at Auto Zone back in '98-'99 the formula I shared is how their Bosch filters were coded then. Like I said, they all have their own system.

Have you tried Ford's website and inquired through there? Perhaps the parts person at the dealer? They are usually pretty good at lending advice and assistance...they want to sell you more parts!

OhioLariat

I just started thinking about this last evening. I might try calling Ford/Motorcraft tomorrow. Thanks.

Andy

Phyer Phyter

5000 miles? Uhhh fugetaboutit. Check the maintenance schedule in your owners manual. My '11 f1fitty had over 277,000 Km's on it when in traded it in and had still factory fuel filter? I wouldn't worry about it.

OhioLariat

The trouble is, it could have 5,000 miles on it, 50,000,or 150,000. I have no way of knowing. Determining the date code could help narrow it down.

I'm going to try to reach someone at Ford/Motorcraft tomorrow.

Andy

Phyer Phyter

In that case, then just do it and be done with it.

grizzstang

I would just change it and then you can be sure. A date code on a filter won't really tell you much anyway. It could have sit on a shelf for 5 years before it was ever put on the truck and if it was tested on the truck and "passed" you still don't know how long it has been on there or what test was performed.

Adam013085

I vote to replace it as well. You'll need a tool, filter of your choice, and 2-10 minutes of your time. Sounds like you've used up a good chunk of time researching the date so why waste more time for such a cheap part?