I recently figured out the fuel filter stand pipe is left hand threads. I got raped for 90 bucks at the ford house for a new one. When the old one broke off, a spring came out of it. I think there must me a check in there or something? Anybody have a diagram? Or does the new one just replace all, with now worries?

 

When I rebuilt my fuel bowl I bought mine from local International Dealer-Stand Pipe INTNL#1825187C91.

Stand pipe was molded hard plastic with the check valve and spring self contained inside the Stand Pipe Tube.

IMMSMC, If you view the pipe from top you should see a circular step in the plastic with two rectangular cutouts on the side of stand pipe, this is the top of the check valve that get's depressed by a small rubber tit on the top inside center of the fuel filter when installed, allowing fuel flow out of the bowl and which also prevents contaminated fuel (if fuel bowl is not drained prior to removing) from flowing into your fuel rails to injectors.

You should be able to grasp the check valve through the rectangular cutouts with index finger and thumb a pull down slightly and feel the spring tension force which will return the check valve to it's seated closed position when you release it.

 

For views of fuel bowl and stand pipe go here and scroll down page.
Ask a Mechanic - A deep look at the 7.3L Power Stroke