Water Separator

[lmichael]

So somewhat new to diesel. I see some threads here mentioning water separators. I see only fuel filters on my G2160. So it leaves me somewhat curious. Should I install a water separator on my machine? If so any recommendation on what to get, where to install?
I know enough to know water should not be present, and am very careful with my fuel. So an inquiring mind wants to know.

 

[GeoHorn]

Doesn’t your machines’ filter already have a water-separating-filter-bowl with a water-detector-ring ?

 

[lmichael]

Doesn’t your machines’ filter already have a water-separating-filter-bowl with a water-detector-ring ?

No. Just simple inline filters

 

[kubotafreak]

There are two of those filters, one by the lift handle, and one by the engine. (imperative they are oriented right) They are water separating in nature. The water remains in the body unless the filter gets too full of water. The fuel passes easier through the element. You just replace them to get rid of the moisture/water. A separator unit like the tractors would be an upgrade.
You can see the water collected easy on the engine mounted filter. The bottom will not be as dark indicating water in the cannister. Granted I use red diesel, it should still be apparent through the white housing.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

The inline filters do separate water, just a very small amount, like Kubotafreak just said.
You could add one of these if you can find room for it, that's the issue with most of those models.

Fuel Filter 6A320‑58862 Water Separator Fit for Kubota B7510 B7610 B7800 B2320 | eBay

Kubota B Series Tractors Kubota L Series Tractors:L2501D,L2501F,L2501H,L2800DT/HST,L2800F,L3200DT,L3200F,L3200H,L3400DT/HST,L3400F,L3700SU,L3800DT,L3800H. Kubota LX Series Tractors Kubota M Series Tractors.

www.ebay.com

R12T fuel/water removal filter -120 AT NPT ZG1/4-19 with Fittings | eBay

We have carried out a number of upgrades and modifications to the structure of the product to ensure that the product can be installed directly without winding PTFE tape.

www.ebay.com

 

[lmichael]

The inline filters do separate water, just a very small amount, like Kubotafreak just said.
You could add one of these if you can find room for it, that's the issue with most of those models.

Fuel Filter 6A320‑58862 Water Separator Fit for Kubota B7510 B7610 B7800 B2320 | eBay

Kubota B Series Tractors Kubota L Series Tractors:L2501D,L2501F,L2501H,L2800DT/HST,L2800F,L3200DT,L3200F,L3200H,L3400DT/HST,L3400F,L3700SU,L3800DT,L3800H. Kubota LX Series Tractors Kubota M Series Tractors.

www.ebay.com

R12T fuel/water removal filter -120 AT NPT ZG1/4-19 with Fittings | eBay

We have carried out a number of upgrades and modifications to the structure of the product to ensure that the product can be installed directly without winding PTFE tape.

www.ebay.com

Pretty cool. I will keep those in mind but I didn't know the inline filters did that as well. I plan on replacing them again this spring after a trip to the dealer to buy some.

 

[Cheryl]

Are there any water separators with a larger, clear bowl, preferably without a filter? My M5030 has a filter with a drain on it, but it's not see-through. This is my second year with this tractor and the second winter I've had a bunch of water in the fuel, in spite of the tank being full.

I would like to be able to inspect my fuel before every start. The little clear tubes used in general aviation to drain fuel from the low point of the tank before a flight, would be acceptable.

 

[kubotafreak]

Are there any water separators with a larger, clear bowl, preferably without a filter? My M5030 has a filter with a drain on it, but it's not see-through. This is my second year with this tractor and the second winter I've had a bunch of water in the fuel, in spite of the tank being full.

I would like to be able to inspect my fuel before every start. The little clear tubes used in general aviation to drain fuel from the low point of the tank before a flight, would be acceptable.

Seems excessive, even for a metal tank to get that much water if you are keeping the tank full. I would suspect the fuel cap and diaphragm. Is the filter drain 1/4”? If so you can easily get a thumb screw tank drain fitting.
Racor makes screw on filters with clear bowls for the lower half. You would need to find the suitable micron rating. The filter flanges are pretty universal.

 

[Cheryl]

Diaphragm? I am completely ignorant about any diaphragms relating to the fuel system.

Seems excessive, even for a metal tank to get that much water if you are keeping the tank full. I would suspect the fuel cap and diaphragm. Is the filter drain 1/4”? If so you can easily get a thumb screw tank drain fitting.
Racor makes screw on filters with clear bowls for the lower half. You would need to find the suitable micron rating. The filter flanges are pretty universal.

 

[kubotafreak]

Most fuel caps have a vent built in. It is some form of rubber/foam.

 

[Cheryl]

Interesting. Thanks. I didn't know that. That could be my problem.

Most fuel caps have a vent built in. It is some form of rubber/foam.