Fuel Problem

[Bull Man]

I have a 2000 7.3 and it seems to be not getting enough fuel. When pulling trailer, it will start to die and make me pull over and stop. It will keep running and if you wait awhile, it will start running better and you can go for awhile more. It does't throw any codes. I thought it was the fuel pump on the frame so I replaced it and it still does it. Also changed the fuel filter. It seems to run alright without the trailer unless you punch it and it will act like it is not getting enough fuel.

[ajpu1983]

It sounds like the sending unit in the tank. The filters inside the sending unit could be stopped up. Drop the tank and inspect for rust/trash and check the sending unit. I would verify low pressure first with a gauge at full load. If pressure drops below 45 psi then you're out of spec. Most sending unit blockages will show a steady decrease in psi as you accelerate until it runs out of fuel/gets to 0 psi. (testing at electric fuel pump outlet).

[Bull Man]

That was what it was. I didn't have anything to test the pressure so I just pulled the tank off and pulled the sending unit out. I took the sending unit apart and sure enough the two little screens were plugged with scale and crap. Cleaned them and now it is working alright. Thank for the info.

[RichardT]

how did you drop the tank? below or pulled the bed of???

[Bull Man]

I just dropped the tank out the bottom. I drain the fuel, removed the straps, undid the clamps on the filler hose and dropped the tank enough to undo the fuel lines. One thing the Ford has enough line so you can drop the tank a fair bit to give you room to undo the lines. You will need those plastic fuel line removers. I just used a couple screwdrivers. Worked but took awhile. Then it just dropped out. Actually fairly easy.

[ajpu1983]

Yeah it's pretty easy to do and it helps tremendously if you buy a fuel line quick disconnect tool set. I drop it from the bottom most of the time as well.

[RichardT]

ok, sounds easy enough, what's will i see once its on the ground looking down on it? Will i be able to see in side the tank?