Draining Water From Your 1999 Powerstroke Fuel Filter

how to drain water fuel filter 1999 powerstroke

If you're looking to drain water from your 1999 Powerstroke's fuel filter, there are a few methods you can try. The first is to locate the fuel bowl and drain the fuel from it. This can be done by turning a yellow lever or valve, which will release the fuel. You can also use a hose attached to the steel line running close to the motor from the fuel bowl drain. Another method is to locate the diesel fuel conditioner module and place a container under the drain port, then rotate the drain counterclockwise to drain the fuel. It's also important to note that you should fully tighten the drain valve after draining to prevent issues with the engine. Additionally, some recommend draining the water separator regularly to prevent water build-up.

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Draining the fuel filter water trap

Firstly, locate the fuel filter water trap. It is usually found underneath the driver's side frame, where the bed meets the cab. It is described as a small, black box with a yellow knob or lever. Place an appropriate container under the drain port to catch the fuel.

Next, turn the yellow knob or lever gently, counter-clockwise by about 30-45 degrees. This will open the valve and start the draining process. Be careful not to use any tools to turn it, and only turn it halfway to prevent fuel from siphoning out. The water will be at the bottom of the bowl and will drain out first, followed by the fuel.

Once the water has been drained, you will start to see clean diesel coming out. At this point, you can stop draining and gently tighten the valve by turning it clockwise. Make sure the valve is fully tightened to prevent air from entering the fuel system, which can cause drivetrain issues.

Some sources suggest that you only need to drain the water trap when you get a warning light in the information display, while others recommend doing it more frequently, such as once a month or every two weeks. It is important to refer to your owner's manual for specific recommendations for your vehicle.

Additionally, if you encounter any issues, such as the bowl not stopping draining, it may be due to a clog or a stuck valve. In such cases, it is advisable to consult an authorized dealer or a professional technician for further assistance.

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Locating the diesel fuel conditioner module

The location of the diesel fuel conditioner module in a vehicle depends on the cab configuration and bed length of the vehicle. It will be mounted either in front of the fuel tank, to the left side of the fuel tank, or to the right side of the fuel tank. On chassis cab trucks with dual tanks, the fuel filter will be mounted to the right side of the midship fuel tank.

The diesel fuel conditioner module houses the secondary fuel filter. To locate it, first, remove the plastic shroud protecting the fuel-water separator drain valve and water-in-fuel sensor. This is secured by three reusable plastic clips that can be removed using a flat-head screwdriver or body clip removal tool. With the shroud removed, the drain valve and water-in-fuel sensor become visible.

The diesel fuel conditioner module can be drained by turning the drain plug counter-clockwise until it stops. No tools should be used to loosen the drain plug. Approximately 2L of fuel will be drained into an appropriate container. Do not reuse the drained fuel.

Once drained, disconnect the electrical connector and fully loosen the bolts securing the lower portion of the module housing. Again, do not fully remove the bolts from the lower portion of the housing. Remove the lower portion of the housing and slide the filter element towards the drain plug to disengage the securing clips.

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Removing the filter housing

To remove the filter housing, start by parking your vehicle on a level surface and opening the hood. Use a 13mm socket and ratchet to remove the two 13mm nuts securing the engine cover. Remove the cover to access the fuel filter housing underneath.

The fuel filter housing drain can be accessed under the truck behind the front passenger tire. Connect one end of a hose to the drain tube and place the other end in a container that can hold at least 16 ounces and is safe to receive fuel. On the back side of the fuel filter housing, you will find a drain release lever.

Once the fuel has been drained and the pressure relieved, loosen the fuel filter cap with a strap wrench or pliers. Position the jaws in the notches of the cap. Remove the fuel filter cap and filter, placing the filter in a drip pan to avoid excess fuel creating a mess.

Depending on the type of fuel filter previously installed, the fuel filter and cap might be one piece or two separate pieces. If they are separate, be sure to save the cap in case you need it for the new filter.

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Using a hose to drain the fuel

To drain the water from the fuel filter of a 1999 Powerstroke, you will need to locate the fuel filter housing drain, which can be found under the truck behind the front passenger tire.

Firstly, park your vehicle on a level surface and open the hood. Then, connect one end of a hose to the drain tube and place the other end in a container that can hold at least 16 ounces and is safe to receive fuel.

Next, locate the drain release lever at the back of the fuel filter housing and pull it to start draining the fuel. Allow the fuel to drain completely before releasing the lever.

It is important to note that you should not start the truck during this process, as recommended by some sources. However, once the fuel has been drained, you can turn the key to the "on" position without starting the engine to allow the fuel pump to refill the bowl. You can then cycle the key to the "off" position and then back to the "on" position, wait 20 seconds, and finally start the truck.

Additionally, make sure to tighten the drain valve after completing the process to prevent air from entering the fuel system and causing drivetrain issues.

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Removing the fuel filter cap

To remove the fuel filter cap of a 1999 Powerstroke, follow these steps:

Park your vehicle on a level surface and open the hood. Use a 13mm socket and ratchet to remove the two 13mm nuts securing the engine cover. Remove the cover to access the fuel filter housing underneath.

The fuel filter housing drain can be located under the truck, behind the front passenger tire. Connect one end of a hose to the drain tube and place the other end in a container that can hold at least 16 ounces and is safe for catching fuel.

Now, you can start to remove the fuel filter cap. Loosen the fuel filter cap with a strap wrench or pliers by positioning the jaws in the notches of the cap. Once loosened, remove the fuel filter cap and filter. Place the filter in a drip pan to catch any excess fuel.

Depending on the type of fuel filter previously installed, the fuel filter and cap might be one piece or two separate pieces. If they are separate, be sure to keep the cap safe, as you may need it for the new filter.

Frequently asked questions

The procedure for draining water from the fuel line of your 1999 Ford F-250 7.3L PowerStroke is similar to that of F-250s from 2000 to 2007. First, park on a level surface and open the hood. Then, use a 13mm socket and ratchet to remove the two 13mm nuts securing the engine cover. Next, remove the cover to access the fuel filter housing underneath. Now, connect one end of the hose to the drain tube and put the other end in a container that can hold at least 16 ounces and is safe for fuel. Finally, on the back of the fuel filter housing, you will find a drain release lever.

The fuel filter water trap is located underneath, along the driver-side frame where the bed meets the cab.

Ford recommends draining the water separator every month. However, some users have noted that they only drain it when they get a warning light.

If the water separator is not drained regularly, water may enter the fuel system.

To drain the water separator, turn the yellow valve gently counter-clockwise by about 30-45 degrees. Something with an opening the size of a coffee cup should be big enough to capture the fuel that comes out. Be gentle with the valve and do not use any tools to turn it.

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