first powerstroke-fuel filter trouble

[Correct_craft]

My new to me powerstroke is running great. It is a 2000 6 spd. 4x4. I noticed the fuel filter housing leaking. Looks upon quick inspection that the cap is leaking. I could turn it by hand. It was snug. Are these things supposed to be hand tight? Also checked filter while I was there. It had alot of gunk on top. Looked like rusty sludge color. Could this be metal on filter that rusted? Truck sat for several months. Also spilled a lot of fuel putting filter back in. Any remedies to not spill all over motor?last question... can you degrease and spray off these motors? Or is this a bad idea? Sorry for multiple. Questions. Just a little out of my norm here.

[Dietoremain]

sounds like your fuel filter is way old, change it asap. simple as that should fix the leaking from it.

[Gchapell]

Also check forum and youtube for maintenance procedure to drain water from the fuel filter assembly. This will also drain the bowl so that it won't overflow when you put filter back in.