Run Lift Pump to Purge Water?

[DiTrani]

Anyone else have to run the lift pump to get anything to drain from the water seperator? I've tried opening the valve several times both when the truck has recently run and not, and nothing drains unless I bump the starter and leave the key in the "run" position (leave the lift pump running).

 

[jmeehan]

That's how I have to do it. Either that or crack the lid on the filter housing.

I'm getting ready to install a momentary contact switch under the hood for just this purpose. The thing I worry about is back feeding voltage to the ECM which powers the lift pump. I'll have to use two switchs, one to open the normal power supply and one to close the momentary power supply.

 

[Chipstien]

Me too

I had the same problem. Though was told that using the lift pump just stir up the water and fuel so you don't get all the water. Is this a crock of **** or should I not use the lift pump.

 

[RJOL]

Are you guys getting warning lights indicating "water in fuel" or just opening the valve as part of routine maintenance. I never open my valve unless I'm draining the fuel in the filter for a filter change. If I got a warning light, I'd also drain it, but that has never happened...

 

[AggieJustin]

I usually open the drain valve at each oil change and check for water. Typically, I open and close it a couple of times and it will start dripping pretty slowly. I just wait a few seconds and the flow will speed up.



There have been a few times where I've had to open and close it more than a couple of times, but I've always got it flowing without the lift pump.



JM

 

[Chipstien]

So I've been told!

I had the mechanic at cummins NW tell me the same thing. I just never thought it would really hurt to check it.

 

[Bigsaint]

Schrader valve

On the inlet of your fuel filter housing is a Schrader valve ( has a plastic cap) . Remove the cap and push in the valve with the drain open. This will break the vaccum ( same as loosening the filter lid) and allow the fuel to pour from the drain line.



Scott W.