Engine stutters above 2k rpms

['97 F250 7.3 Powerstroke]

My 97 7.3 seems to stutter or miss when I free rev it above 2k rpm. It will rev up to the 3400-3500rpm range but its like it misses. the whole truck shakes when it does this. Only happens when I free rev it, if I'm driving it it doesn't do it as bad but still barely noticeable. I know this isn't a great explanation and I'll try to get a vid uploaded tomorrow if I can. But if this makes any sense to you any advice is greatly appreciated since this is my DD.

['97 F250 7.3 Powerstroke]

Ok so we had a small break in the rain today and I went out to look at the truck. I found some small puddles of fuel in the valley of the engine, also was a small puddle under the truck I assume ran down the back of the block? So i believe it's a fuel delivery problem. won't be able to work on it for a couple more days since I have no where to get it in the dry.

What are some of the most common area(s) for a fuel leak to develop??

[atvrider93]

first, don't just sit there and rev your engine.
for the possible fuel leak, watch it while running. clean it off real good and see where it's coming from. also check your FPR screen and fuel filter

['97 F250 7.3 Powerstroke]

Ok so I took the fuel filter out today and it was black in color is this right? or is this meaning it needs to be changed. Also should I be able to remove the fuel filter with two fingers??? Seems something like that should be nice and tight to prevent leaks.

EDIT: Here's a pic of the fuel filter

['97 F250 7.3 Powerstroke]

Ok guys I got the truck fixed but all I done was put a new fuel filter in it.