Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) fuel filter/water seperatot drain hose??

[PGaither]

Whats the deal with draining the fuel filter/ water seperator? The owners manual says to drain the fuel filter/water seperator with each fillup! That seems a bit excessive, do I realy have to do it that often? That would be 2-3 times aweek... . I've been trying to do it once a week, sometimes two weeks. Is that o. k? It says to drain untill I see fuel come out, I've never seen water as far as I can tell, it always seems like Diesel fuel. And the hose was so short, I exteded it so its longer so it clears the front axel, that way I can put a small container under to catch the fuel, thats o. k to do, right?

 

[JNailor]

I don't think you need to drain that often. Diesel fuel is a whole lot cleaner nowadays.

Back in the 80's my water separator would have to be drained a lot, but i've never gotten any water out of the Dodge in 143,000 miles.

Dana

 

[y-knot]

You know in 7 years I have never had my water in fuel light come on. And I very rarely drain the water, I just don't think it's a big problem. I would think if you would drain it every time you check the oil, that would be fine.

 

[PGaither]

Thanks guys, so if I check it/drain a couple times a month or so, that should be o. k, right?

 

[illflem]

Assuming you're getting clean fuel it pretty much depends on where you live.

In dry Nevada you might not ever have to drain it, on the humid Gulf Coast every fill up might not be enough. Collect some of the fuel in a glass jar when you open the valve and see how much water is in it then keep extending the intervals till you feel good about it.

The water will be at the bottom of the jar and very obvious.

 

[PGaither]

Thanks illflem, I live right before you cross the Bridge to Cape Cod Massachusets (if your ever in the area feel free to look me up), so it can get pretty humid in the Summer as I'm close to the water... ... . (although I get my Diesel fuel a bit further inland at a well used truck stop)I'll do the glass jar test per your recomendation. So far I've been doing it once a week, I now see I'll have to be on top of it in the summer especially when its humid. Whats your advice on my clutch fan bearing question posted on here? Your opinions are much appreciated & rerspected on here as I can tell you are very knowladgeable on the mighty Cummins!