I have a 1986 F-250 4x4 6.9 that I recently swapped out the firewall filter for a universal filter. Shortly after swapping it, the truck began having starting woes (start fine, stall after a few seconds, then start again after a few seconds of cranking).

I found that the rubber cap near the #1 injector had dry-rotted, so I replaced it, but I still couldn't get it started. After more investigation, I figured out that the filter head had split and was allowing air into the system (duh!). So I got another filter head, swapped it out and bled the system. It started and idled just fine. I let it run for a few minutes to make certain that it wasn't still having problems, then took it for a quick spin down the road. I made it about 1/2 a mile and it suddenly lost power and died. I pulled and refilled the main fuel filter (not the new aftermarket one) and it started after a few seconds. I turned around and went back up the hill to the house where I let it idle for another 15-20 minutes before shutting it down again. I restarted right away and after checking the filter, it was full.

The truck had 2 full tanks of fuel, so there should have been a reason for the stalling, unless of course, I still have air leaking into the system through the new filter head.

I was trying to avoid shelling out a lot of cash for the factory water separator, but now I'm second guessing my decision. So far I'm out $30 and haven't been able to use it for nearly 2 weeks.

Also, I have replaced the fuel return lines and o-rings within the last year, as well as the glow plugs, fuel/air filter, etc, etc. The reason I replaced the water separator was because the relief valve kept popping and draining fuel onto the ground and allowing air into the system.

I would appreciate any help, ideas, stories, antecdotes about your own experieinces.

Thanks,

Brian

 

I see where some shops are recommending swapping the 6.9 water separator with a 7.3 one as it has replaceable filters. Anyone done this? Recommended?

 

Since you didn't have any problems before you started with the additional filter. I would double check all the connections you either moved or added to be sure they are tight. One little crack in the system and it will cause running/start problems.

 

That was not a filter it was a fuel/water separator, on occasion they will allow air intrusion when the drain tab is pulled and does not reseat. Just jam a bolt up the drain tube until next time you want to drain it, replace after.

PS......... please drain separators regularly, it's the only protection for your IP against water.......the #1 IP killer.

http://www.dieselpage.com/racref69.htm

 

Do you have a part number for the Racor in the link you provided?

 

Sorry I do not.... But a complete used 7.3 idi filter assy and base at the wreckers would be probably cheaper. You could contact the IH dealer in your area.....

 

I found this fuel/water separator on another site and is supposed to be the direct replacement for the 6.9 fuel filter.

Racor BF811

Can anyone confirm this? I can't locate a reliable cross reference based on the standard fuel filters. If so, Torreson marine has the <A HREF=http://shop.torresen.com/ships_store/index.php?p=details&mfc=RACOR&sku=INRK20567&frm=g> metal bowl for $48</A> and the <A HREF=http://shop.torresen.com/ships_store/index.php?p=details&mfc=RACOR&sku=INRK21057&frm=g> plastic bowl for $30</A>.

 

[QUOTE=briansrapier]I found this fuel/water separator on another site and is supposed to be the direct replacement for the 6.9 fuel filter.

Racor BF811
QUOTE]

I was looking for this item several months ago (online) and was informed that this particular model was discontinued, although the filters are still available. I chose the RS45 model, with the clear bowl and manual pump, and used the 2 micron "S" filter, seems like I paid about $130. It fit right in the location of my old factory separator, although it was very tight. I did have to remove the "cage", but the bolt pattern was the same. It sure has been nice to not endure the starved for fuel condition on starting that I was suffering through. I was interested in the BF811 first because of price and ease of installation, and being in the desert, felt that water accumulation was not a big concern, as I have seen others post here that they bypass their separator with no ill effect. I suppose that the issue of water-contaminated fuel is always a possibility, and I rest much easier having the pump option, and the clear collection bowl to check occassionally.


'85 F-250 6.9l, C6, Dually, 285,000 and counting

 

That's the same one I had on my 86....I had to unbolt it fom the firewall to change it????

 

Haven't had it long enough to change filter yet, it appears to have enough room to change,(???) I have heard of using RS60 filters, using the same base. The 60's are longer, I'm sure that would be an issue. I appreciate the warning, almost wish you hadn't mentioned it, then I could kick myself in private. But, like I tell the new kids, "I don't know all this 'cause I'm smart, I know it because I screwed up a bunch."