Massive Fuel Leak

[dirtyb15]

Was driving my truck tonight and about 3/4 the way to my destination i noticed i had a ton of smoke following me. I had a full rear tank when i left and when i looked down it was already half gone. By the time i pulled over i was almost empty. Just had it towed home and i have not had a chance to look at it yet, but definitely coming from somewhere under the turbo cover. Hoping it will be obvious when i get a chance to check it out.... Is there a common failure point i should be looking for?

[DaveH.]

Look at the fuel pump, it is right undr the turbo, and look to see if the valley is full of fuel.
If it is, you want to get it all washed out as soon as you can, diesel fuel will eat away at all wires and such.

[dirtyb15]

Well, finally got a chance to have a look. Took the fuel filter cap off and it was completely empty. I also noticed alot of dirt and build up on top of the filter. (I just changed it 1000 miles ago and it was very clean in there. ) Once i got the canister removed i discovered a pretty big hole blown out the bottom of it. I cant figure out what would cause this??? What are my options now? I found a new one at rock auto for about 250, which is about what used ones are going for. Is there any way to repair the hole or is new the way to go?

thanks in advance,
dave

[bugman]

I'd go with the new one but some have cleaned the bottom of the housing real well and used JB Weld to seal up the hole. It's up to you on what you want to do.

[dirtyb15]

So is this a common problem on these?

I also found a post titled below at power-stroke nation, any thoughts on that mod?

The "Tightwad mod" Fuel Bowl delete and regulated return for peanuts

[bugman]

To do that you would still need to purchase and install a separate fuel filter/water separator onto the fuel lines. Which in time will also leak if not properly maintained.

[1997_F250]

I've got one that I'll let go cheap. Pm me if you are interested.

[dirtyb15]

Thanks 97, i'll let you know if this Tightwad mod does not work out. (I decided to give it a shot.)
I just finished modifying my regulator and im getting ready to tap it. Picking up a filter assembly tomorrow from tractor supply. We'll see how it goes!

[dirtyb15]

Just wanted to give an update, I did the tightwad mod and everything seems to be good to go. Probably cost me about 70 bucks for everything


Here is a pic of the hole in the old bowl.


Pic of modified regulator installed




Pic of filter/separator setup from tractor supply.

[Snowtow]

How many microns is that filter? I ask because the ones I've seen in the tractor supply stores don't filter to a small enough particulate for the PSD. They may work find on a tractor, but I wouldn't install one on my pickup. You should have something in the 5-10 micron range.

[dirtyb15]

It has a 10 micron filter