Filter drain o-ring leak or something else?

[hammer1995]

As it's gotten colder over the past several days I've noticed these larger and larger puddles of fuel under my 2001 F-250 Powerstroke.


Crawled under the truck this afternoon and see fuel dripping out behind the oil pan. There's a metal cover there that has a drain hole in the bottom and there was a steady drip coming from it


Here's another shot of that area by the starter and oil pan.


I move to the area where the fuel filter drain line terminates under the truck and I can see there's been some leaking there, but nothing like the back of the engine.


I look up by the fuel filter and I can see diesel in the valley. I can't see anywhere it is obviously leaking up there.



It doesn't make sense to me why all of the diesel would be in the valley if it was the fuel filter drain valve o-rings. Wouldn't the fuel drain out towards the front of the vehicle if that was the case?

[jbeasts10]

If it is the o-rings,crank the truck and see if it is leaking from that area.(should be easier to see while it has pressure ).WATCH OUT FOR MOVING PARTS THOUGH>

[NCHornet]

Yep my bet is on the O rings, you can replace just the O rings or by the whole valve assembly for $40 or so. I would get a flashlight and a mirror on a stick and check for the leak location, just turn the key on, you don't need to start the truck to look for a fuel leak.

[ms8091]

If it is the o-rings it will leak into the valley. It comes from the housing that holds the yellow plastic handle to the filter housing. The o-rings are easy to replace and if you go onto dieselorings.com, you can get them very cheap. I got the whole fuel kit (about 9-10 o-rings) for $11 shipped.

[tubular031]

I just replaced the Orings on my drain today. Its not a hard job but its a PAIN to work in that little area. Check out Replacement O-rings for Ford Diesel Engines

[matttupp84]

Mine is doing the same thing! But i need to fix it ASAP because its a work truck. Can i get just the O rings from the dealer or am i going to have to by the entire drain valve? Is the drain valve a dealer only part or can i find it at the local parts store? DO you guys know?

[CHUCK]

dealer only...

[dray8165]

Actually, the problem is so common that Dormon has gotten in on the game. Dorman part 904-202 available by special order at Autozone - they want $73 for it. I sure wouldn't buy one from them - but is isn't just at Ford anymore.....

[matttupp84]

what is the price at the dealer?

[dray8165]

From the Wabash Ford Dealership website:

Fuel/water separator, f250 pick-up, 7.3l diesel - 1999-07 super duty - 1999-07 SUPER DUTY 99-03 List $45.32 Retail $33.72