Rajan Wilcox
Water in diesel fuel tanks is a common issue for Ford tractor owners, especially in warmer weather. If a Ford tractor sits idle for a few months, water can enter the fuel tank and clog up the fuel lines. This can cause the engine to cut off as if it's out of fuel. To prevent this, it is recommended to drain the water separator and replace the fuel filters. Some sources suggest doing this monthly, while others recommend draining the water separator every two weeks to prevent water from entering the fuel system. Ford tractor manuals also provide instructions on how to drain the fuel filter water trap.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to drain water separator | Every month, or when a warning light comes on |
| How to drain water separator | Turn the yellow valve underneath the vehicle counter-clockwise |
| How to know when to stop draining | When clean diesel starts coming out |
| What to do after draining | Tighten the drain valve, then restart the engine |
| What to do if the warning light stays on | Have the fuel system checked and repaired |
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What You'll Learn
Draining the water separator
Step 1: Prepare the Tractor
Park your Ford tractor on level ground or with the nose facing downhill. This positioning ensures that the drainage process is efficient and prevents any potential blockages. Turn off the engine and ensure the key is in the "off" position. Access the underside of the tractor to locate the diesel fuel conditioner module, typically found on the left-hand frame rail.
Step 2: Drain the Diesel Fuel Conditioner Module
Place an appropriate container underneath the drain plug of the diesel fuel conditioner module. Loosen the drain plug by turning it counterclockwise until it stops; avoid using tools for this step. Allow the module to drain completely, which should be approximately 0.5 gallons (2 litres) of fluid. It is important to note that the drained fuel should not be reused.
Step 3: Tighten the Drain Plug
After ensuring that the drain plug is tight, turn it clockwise until it stops and you feel strong resistance. Again, refrain from using any tools during this step.
Step 4: Prime the System
Return to the tractor's cabin and turn the key to the "on" position for 30 seconds. Then, turn the key to the "off" position and repeat the process by turning it back "on" for another 30 seconds. It is important to repeat this priming step twice to ensure the system is ready for the next steps.
Step 5: Check for Water and Contaminants
Some Ford tractors may have a "Water in Filter" warning light. If your tractor has this feature and the light is on, it indicates the presence of water or a faulty sensor. In this case, you may need to drain more fluid than usual, and a thorough cleaning is recommended. Examine the drained fluid for any signs of water or contaminants. If you notice a significant amount of water or debris, it may be necessary to clean the separator and fuel system.
Step 6: Optional Cleaning
If you notice excessive water, debris, or sludge in the drained fluid, consider cleaning the fuel tank and fuel lines. You can use an extraction pump to remove any remaining fuel and sediment from the base of the tank. Additionally, an air compressor can be utilised to blow out any debris or contaminants from the fuel lines.
By following these steps, you can effectively drain the water separator on your Ford tractor, ensuring the diesel fuel system remains in good condition. Regular maintenance of the water separator, including periodic draining and inspections, can help prevent fuel injection equipment damage and maintain the tractor's performance. Remember to always refer to your specific Ford tractor's manual for additional model-specific instructions and safety precautions.
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Draining the fuel filter water trap
To drain the fuel filter water trap of a Ford tractor, you must first access the underside of your vehicle. The fuel filter water trap is located on the left-hand frame rail, along the driver-side frame where the bed meets the cab. It is a black box with a yellow knob or valve. Place an appropriate container underneath the drain port to collect the drained fluid.
The next step is to loosen the drain plug or valve by turning it counter-clockwise. Be gentle and do not use any tools to turn it. Only turn the knob or valve halfway or one to two turns, until you see the O-ring, and allow the water to drain. When you see clean diesel coming out, the water has been fully drained. Water is much heavier than diesel, so it collects at the bottom of the tank.
After draining, tighten the drain plug or valve by turning it clockwise until you feel a strong resistance. Do not use any tools to tighten the drain plug.
Finally, prime the system by turning the key to the 'on' position for 30 seconds. Then turn the key to the 'off' position, and then back on again for another 30 seconds. Repeat this process twice.
It is important to note that Ford recommends draining the fuel filter water trap only when a warning light appears in the information display. However, some Ford tractor owners choose to do this more frequently, such as every month or every two weeks, to prevent water buildup.
If, after draining the fuel filter water trap and priming the system, the "Water in Fuel Drain Filter" message and light continue to illuminate, you may need to have the fuel system checked and repaired.
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Cleaning the tank and fuel lines
If your Ford tractor has been sitting idle for a few months, water, sediments, or other contaminants could appear in the fuel tank and clog up the fuel lines. To clean the tank and fuel lines, follow the steps outlined below:
- Drain the diesel fuel conditioner module by locating the filter using the tables provided in your manual. Turn the drain plug counter-clockwise until it stops, but do not use any tools to loosen it. Collect the drained fuel in an appropriate container, and do not reuse it.
- Tighten the drain plug by turning it clockwise and continue until you feel resistance. Do not use any tools for tightening.
- Prime the system by turning the key to the 'on' position for 30 seconds. Then, turn it 'off' and 'on' again for another 30 seconds. Repeat this sequence twice.
- Once the tank stops draining, use an extraction pump to remove any remaining fuel and sediment settled at the base of the tank.
- If necessary, use an air compressor to blow out debris.
- Remove the fuel line before the fuel rail or injection pump. Insert the air compressor nozzle into the hose and blow air back towards the tank to remove any debris in the fuel lines. Secure and replace the lines once complete.
- Screw the diesel fuel line nut or hose back onto the base of the diesel fuel tank.
- Drain the water separator and replace the fuel filters.
- Refill the tank with fresh diesel fuel.
- Pour the correct amount of diesel fuel tank cleaner into the tank.
- Replace the fuel cap and start the engine.
- Bleed your fuel system. For newer Ford tractors, turn the key and allow the electric fuel pump to flow fuel up to the filters.
- For models with injection pumps, open the bleeder screw to purge air, then crank the engine until it starts. Once the engine starts, close the bleeder screw.
Please consult your owner's manual for further details and to identify which system your tractor has. Additionally, always dispose of drained fuel responsibly and avoid using contaminated water in sewer drain systems.
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Bleeding the fuel system
Step 1: Drain the Water and Clean the Fuel Tank
Start by locating the diesel fuel conditioner module on the left-hand frame rail of your Ford tractor. Switch off the engine and position yourself under the vehicle. To drain the module, turn the drain plug counterclockwise with your hands until it stops; do not use any tools for this step. Collect the drained fuel in an appropriate container, approximately 0.5 gallons or 2 litres. Once complete, tighten the drain plug by turning it clockwise until you feel resistance; again, refrain from using tools.
Step 2: Prime the System
Turn the key to the 'on' position and hold it there for 30 seconds. Then, turn the key to the 'off' position and repeat the previous step. Perform this cycle twice to ensure the system is adequately primed.
Step 3: Open the Bleeder and Drain
With the engine shut off, open the bleeder on the top of the filter housing. You may need to loosen the fuel inlet line at the injectors. Drain the system until you observe clean fuel flowing out.
Step 4: Close the Bleeder and Start the Engine
After ensuring that the bleeder is securely closed, attempt to start the engine. If the tractor fails to catch, proceed to bleed the system normally, starting at the filter and moving to the pump and then the injectors.
Step 5: Alternative Method for Filter Replacement
If you are changing the fuel filter, there is an alternative method to bleed the system. Start by turning off the fuel supply. Then, open the bleeder at the filter head and turn on the fuel supply. Keep an eye on the fuel stream; once it is free of bubbles, close the bleeder. Finally, crank the engine with the fuel shutoff turned off. You should observe a sequence of clear fuel, air, and then fuel again. When a clear stream of fuel is achieved, your tractor is ready to start.
Remember to always refer to your tractor's manual for specific instructions related to your model. These steps provide a general guide, and variations may exist depending on the make and model of your Ford tractor.
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Resetting the fuel filter life
It is important to drain the fuel and clean the tank and fuel lines of your Ford tractor if it has been sitting idle for a few months. This is because water, sediment, or other contaminants could appear in the fuel tank and clog up the fuel lines.
To drain the water from your Ford tractor's fuel filter, first switch off the engine. Access the underside of your vehicle; the diesel fuel conditioner module is on the left-hand frame rail. Drain the diesel fuel conditioner module by turning the drain plug counterclockwise. Do not use any tools to loosen the drain plug. Drain the filter into an appropriate container—around 0.5 gal (2 L) should be enough. Do not reuse the fuel drained from the module. Tighten the drain plug by turning it clockwise until you feel resistance; again, do not use any tools for tightening.
Now, prime the system by turning the key to the 'on' position for 30 seconds. Turn the key off and then on again for another 30 seconds. Repeat this process twice.
Next, open the bleeder on the top of the filter housing and bleed until you see clean fuel. Close the bleeder and start the engine.
Regarding resetting the fuel filter life, one source states that there is no reset for the fuel filter or water separator on the 2017 model. However, another source mentions that the filter life can be reset to 100% while in the fuel pump priming process. This process involves turning the key to the 'on' position, but the engine should remain off.
To keep track of the mileage, it is recommended to write down the mileage on the filter/assembly using a pen that can write on that surface.
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