500 Hour Service Interval Guide for a Ditch Witch SK755 – Part 2

Written by Luis Montes Updated On  March 17, 2025

We previously refilled the engine oil and changed the engine oil filter on a Ditch Witch SK755 as part of the 500 hour service interval.

In this post, we’ll cover changing the canister fuel filter.

You can also see the process on our Tekamo HD YouTube channel. Check it out.

Tools You’ll Need

Depending on the equipment you’ll be working on, you can use a strap wrench, filter pliers, or channellock pliers to change a spin-on filter.

We went for the strap wrench because the canister fuel filter on the SK755 mini skid steer is a bit further down, and there isn’t much room in the engine compartment.

The Mueller-Kueps Universal Belt Wrench is perfect for oil filters and dehydrator cartridges with a maximum diameter of 180 mm (7 inches). Available at Fortis HD!

Get Ready For a Mess

The SK755 canister fuel filter is lower than the fuel tank. Because of this level difference, plenty of fuel will pour out once you remove the filter. Have a drain pan and absorbent pads underneath to contain the inevitable mess.

To shorten the pouring time, set up the new filter, that is:

• Take it out of the packaging.
• Prefill it—priming the fuel filter removes air pockets within the filter and lines, ensuring a smooth start after installation.
• Lube the seal—you can use diesel to lube the rubber seal (it is oily). Part 1 of this series discusses the benefits of lubricating spin-on filter seals.

Crack the old filter loose with the strap wrench by turning clockwise.

Don’t use tools to install the new filter. Tightening it by hand prevents damage to the seal and thread and makes it easier to remove it during the next service.

Next Post

Our next article will cover replacing the Ditch Witch SK755 inline fuel filter.

If you don’t have the time to perform the service yourself or want to enroll in a preventative maintenance program for your heavy equipment, contact Tekamo HD to schedule a heavy-duty mechanic.