Fuel heater and filter cap woes

[bigjas]

As I am poking around under the hood (checking glow plugs before it gets to cold) I notice the dreaded fuel leak. I have ordered the replacement vitron(?) o rings for the water drain valve. But, while trying to locate the leak, I discovered that my fuel heating element is no longer glued to the three round (and slightly raised) areas that it used to be attached to. Must this be replaced, or can it reattached? If it can be reattached, what are the recommendations for doing so? And does anyone have a picture of one intact that I can use to verify I am putting it back together correctly?

I also need to locate a replacement filter cap. The one that is on there now was integrated with an Amsoil filter, but that product has been discontinued and the cap can not be separated. Dealer here wants $72 for just a cap. Anyone have a good source for a cap (and maybe a fuel heater element)?

Lastly seven glow plugs tested between 0.2 and 0.4 Ohms (replaced about two years ago). One tested >30.0 Ohms. In this case would it be appropriate to only replace one if it tests the same when removed? Or should I do all eight?

Thanks for the help, I usually just troll around in the background gleaning info from everyone.

 

[Frankenstien]

Start with the Easy one first if you have an Auto Zone Auto parts store near by they use the Integrated filter/Cap on theirs... other wise take a shot at E-Bay... when you say Glued... do you mean the Solder points inside the Fuel bowl?... if so ... I do beleave you can remove and re-solder.... won't hurt anything not to have them in place ... unless the weather gets real cold.... as far as replacing the Glow plugs.... since its a PIA to get to any of them ... as you have to remove valve covers... and all the plumbing to the turbo... might as well do all of them on the side that you remove... JMO...

 

[bigjas]

when you say Glued... do you mean the Solder points inside the Fuel bowl?

There is some type of clear adhesive still attached to the heating element. It looks like the element was "super glued" to the three round things protruding above the metal plate.

 

[JSPulliam21]

Is it a wire looking element ike the 94.5-97? If so, then you need to reattatch it, or remove it. It can short out on the fuel bowl and blow the #22 fuse causing a no start condition.

 

[bigjas]

It is a bare wire. I do not know if it is the same as the earlier models. But that is my fear as well. I have not yet found anything that is rated to be submerged in diesel fuel continuously and exposed to heat (I don't know what the element temperature high value is). I am sure that lots of things may work, but I need to ensure that it will not break down and contaminate the fuel system.

 

[JSPulliam21]

I have heard that the SuperDuty fuel heater will work, and is a much better design. The element is bolted down so that it cannot come loose and short out. Do a search, and I bet you will find a p/n and directions. I think it is a plug n play deal, though.

 

[bigjas]

I finally got back to the truck. The heating element was soldered. Will try and re-solder it. When the heater plate is removed, the center black plastic tube comes out as well. There is a thin blue o-ring to seal it. Will any o-ring work (appropriately sized) or is this another dealer only item? Thanks for the input.