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DEF in fuel

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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 05:07 AM
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DEF in fuel

I had a big brain f**t yesterday. Went to put in def from jug and poured it into fuel.....i know ..wtf. Only about one pint went in as i quickly realized what i was doing. Any way next day water in fuel light came on. I have drained separator three times now and reduced power light is now on, also still water in fuel light. Should i just keep draining it and hope to get it all or do i have a serious problem here ?
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 05:15 AM
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Don't drive the truck! With the cost of the fuel system components, I would have the fuel system drained and flushed. Glad to hear the water seperator does work.
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 05:33 AM
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I was afraid of that, guess i will drive it to work and tow from there. Thanks for the reply.
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 06:15 AM
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Tow it to the dealer!
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 06:43 AM
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Well I drained it again this morning, drove to work and all lights and warnings were gone. I will put some miles on after work and see what happins. Think I might have got it all out??
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 07:18 AM
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Just my opinion, but I think that the damage is done. It's good that the lights are off, now the real issue is whether or not any damage was done to the High Pressure Fuel Pump.

If water got to the HPFP there will be evidence of rust. That will be a the basis for warranty claim denial in the event that anything happens with the HPFP now or in the future.

My understanding is that the Fuel System repairs, that are a result of a grenaded HPFP, is $10K - $12 K. A new HPFP is ~$800. So if there is a possibility that any water got to the HPFP, I would consider having the HPFP inspected or replaced.

I have also read that many insurance companies will not cover HPFP related repairs, you may want to check with yours.

Also note that if you send the truck to the dealership and they know that you put DEF in the fuel tank, that will be input into OASIS - in my view - voiding any future fuel system warranty.

As mentioned above these are just my opinions, I hope that everything works out for you.
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 08:34 AM
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A little late for you; but, for anyone that happens to do this in the future.....

Best thing to do is do not drive or start the truck; get the fuel tank dropped, emptied and cleaned. The tow and labor will be cheaper than a non-warranty fuel system replacement.

Ford has warranty picture aid:
http://www.forddoctorsdts.com/techni...em_revised.pdf

Notice the difference (to your wallet) between procedure A and B; A being if engine started and B being if engine not started. Note the pictures at end indicating DEF in fuel filter (crystals).

rest of links:
DTS Technical Resources

I feel for you and thank you for sharing as none of us are perfect; may be the wake-up call someone needs.

Good luck,

Bob
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 08:37 AM
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So damage is already done ? I would like to think the separator done its job and all is well.
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 08:51 AM
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Originally Posted by bnmccoy
A little late for you; but, for anyone that happens to do this in the future.....

Best thing to do is do not drive or start the truck; get the fuel tank dropped, emptied and cleaned. The tow and labor will be cheaper than a non-warranty fuel system replacement.

Ford has warranty picture aid:
http://www.forddoctorsdts.com/techni...em_revised.pdf

Notice the difference (to your wallet) between procedure A and B; A being if engine started and B being if engine not started. Note the pictures at end indicating DEF in fuel filter (crystals).

rest of links:
DTS Technical Resources

I feel for you and thank you for sharing as none of us are perfect; may be the wake-up call someone needs.

Good luck,

Bob
I would add do not even turn on your key so the fuel pump doesn't start. then it is contained in the tank. I don't think I would even give my keys to anyone until later so nobody could start the pump.
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 09:00 AM
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Originally Posted by 11red250
So damage is already done ? I would like to think the separator done its job and all is well.
I would do a fuel filter change, yourself. If you take it to a dealer and they see the crystalization they most likely will note it for the future. I believe you have to let it dry for that to occur, but I don't think I would take the chance. Either way the WIF light activation has been recorded anyway.
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 09:23 AM
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Sorry to hear about that.....but.....how in the hell do you put DEF in the fuel tank? I just filled my DEF yesterday and the filler spout for the DEF is an exact fit for the filler tube on the truck......the fuel filler tube is 3-4 times larger. I just don't understand how people are doing this.....
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 09:34 AM
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People get in a routine of Open the fuel door and take off the green cap. That is one advantage of GM putting the DEF fill some place other than by the fuel fill.

We should use the thread as reminder, IF you make that mistake, Tow the truck in and drop the fuel tank.
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 10:17 AM
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Thanks to you all that have replyed. I'm about sick to my gut about this,and cant grasp why such a small amount would cause such a problem. About one pint or less! Im just going to change fuel filters tonight as the warnings are gone and hope for the best. This truck seems way to sensitive to a small but stupid mistake. Should have went with a gasser ????
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 10:32 AM
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A gas engine may have been a better choice for you. Only you can speak to that.

Does your truck insurance cover any of this if there is major damage?
 
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Old Oct 24, 2012 | 10:56 AM
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Keep us updated over next few weeks
 
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