The "plastic" fuel filter is the primary. It doesn't stop much of anything.

You next task is to change the secondary filter..........up next to the head. Be sure that you completely fill it with fuel............after you muscle it into position............and before you tighten it with the retaining bolt............or you'll be back on here screaming that it won't start.

Fuel filters are a maintenance item on a diesel and should be replaced periodically............before one of them strands you...........