Sucking Air Into Fuel lines???

[fastguy69]

Hey guys,  Just got my 88 cabby swapped over to a 1.6 NA and I intend on putting the full details on here as soon as it is complete however I'm having a problem right now.

There is a massive amount of air getting sucked through the clear fuel line from the filter to the IP. It starts and runs rough for a little bit before smoothing out and the stumbling and dying. I swapped the fuel lines for the ones that came out of my diesel rabbit and I removed the fuel pump and what looks like a filter back by the tank.  What I didn't remove is a rectangular box beside the fuel tank that the fuel and return lines run through.  Can anyone tell me what this is and if this could be the source of the air in my lines?  Should I remove this "box" and run my lines to those that run straight to the tank?  Any help would be appreciated.

[rabbitman]

IIRC that "box" is a water separator (not sure mine don't have one, I've read about it though), it is often the source of air in the lines, it can be deleted.

[jtanguay]

yep its a water separator.  get rid of it! 

[SolarSteve]

I had 1 on my 1991 Jetta and all it did was cause the "water in fuel light"/glow plug light to flash.  I removed it and connected the hoses together, good to go!  If you are concerned about draining any water just get a fuel filter with a water drain valve on the bottom and drain it when ever you want.

Also, check all of your other fuel line connections.  The fuel system is under a vaccuum so it can suck air in and not leak fuel out.

[rallydiesel]

I have never had to drain any water from either of my diesels. Unless you're stealing diesel from antique tractors, you should never have a problem with water in your ULSD.

[fastguy69]

Is there water separators on gasser Cabbys?  I was told be my parts store that it is an accumulator.  I removed it any how and I'm still getting a few bubbles but it runs and drives.  I'll come back to that issue later.