Fuel Leaking From Side of Filter during cold start

[acanuk16]

Hello,
I've got a '99 7.3L that does not like the cold. When its plugged in, the truck starts fine and runs fine. When i do not plug it in the truck is very hard to start. I cycle the plugs 3-4 times and it usually fires up. The latest incident involves a considerable amount of fuel leaking out of the line that comes off the drivers side of the fuel filter canister. It only leaks during cold starting and doesn't leak at all when its at idle or running.
I was wondering if people could shed some light on this issue for me.
Thanks

[mburman]

need to verify the glow plug relay and glow plugs are functioning. O-rings contract with cold and will leak, rebuilding the bowl, and drain valve, replacing all with viton seals will help or eliminate. Rebuilding the fuel bowl only takes 1-2 hours start to finish, and less than $100. The glow plug relay is at napa, search for the part number. Glow plugs take couple of hours to replace but if the valve cover gaskets have never been touched, good time to update. Once you pull valve covers first time, second time only takes 10 minutes.

[acanuk16]

Ok so a rebuild consists of just the water/fuel drain valve and the lid gasket? I had the relay and plugs changed recently when it wasn't starting in 40 degree weather. I have heard that the glow plug harness does loosen inside the valve covers. Is there an easy way of testing the connection without removing the cover?
Another question; I do realize that the seals are old but is the fuel leak i've told you about common with the older trucks?