Thread: TD5 diesel fuel filter bottom sensor leaking

If your lucky it's just loose.
It may have been over tightned and has now cracked
I carry a spare bolt, flat washer and one of the old ruber washers to screw in if this happens while I'm out and about.
I think it's a imperial thread from memory.
I broke a water sensor on my first filter change, removed the inners with a small flat head screwdriver and fitted the above bolt till the new one arived.

Ok, cool, so it just gets rotated by hand until it's tight.

Originally Posted by twr7cx

Ok, cool, so it just gets rotated by hand until it's tight.

Got in one
The theory is it can be loosened to allow any water traped in the bottom of the filter to be drained off without rebleeding the fuel system.

I need a new Sedimenter. I tried to tighten it and it would just turn without ever getting tighter. So I undid it and the thread is screwed. Why they would use a plastic thread I do not know.

Part number is either:
WKW100000 - to (V)YA250944
WKW000020 - from (V)YA250945 to (V)3A838203

Local spares shop has none in stock (Defender only unit which is different), but has them coming in on Monday. Price is $50.60. Said there common for the thread to strip.

My D2a from new didn't have the electric sensor (water sensor?) on the bottom of the fuel filter, only a plastic drain plug. After fracturing the plastic drain plug probably due to over tightening during a service and dumping about 30l of fuel in 2 km I've now replaced it with a stainless drain bolt.
I'd recommend everyone does the same, its a real weak point.
I think its 10mm, but you could do a search of old posts. It has been discussed before.
You have to remember to tell the stealer's to replace the bolt after changing the filter.

There's a reason the sensors there though. It's a **** load more expensive for the new engine if you get water in it and it compresses than buying a new sensor. Using a bolt as a plug is fine for emergencies only in my opinion.
The TD5 Defenders had a different setup - the water sensor was elsewhere? Perhaps someone fitted on of their drain plugs into yours. Do you have a wiring loom dangling down there?