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I'm back on the fuel filter for my E99 7.3. The last time the filter was changed the filter was replaced with a Wix type filter which has the cap included. These seem a little easier because of the included cap and o ring.
That said, I notice that it does not have the same water membrane that the OEM Motorcraft filter (w/o cap included) Does it make a difference?
Well, if it doesn't block water intrusion into your injectors, there can be a long term impact. With the high temperature in your injectors, water turns to steam which is compressible, and not an ideal combustion candidate.
Also, the filter elements with the built in lids seem to be more prone to leaks (generically speaking).
Personally (and many others here) refuse to use anything but OEM Motorcraft fuel filters for the reasons stated above. Even if you drive 20K miles annually, the difference in money doesn;t account for much in comparison to the potential risks.