Water separator for L3901

marrt · Nov 30, 2019

I have an L3901 and don't like the water separator. To remove the water, I have to remove the bowl and poor the contents into something. On all my other machines, there's a valve on the bottom of the bowl. It's simple and quick to open the valve and drain the water. Is anyone aware of an aftermarket bowl that includes a valve? I'm aware of after market filters (e.g., Racor) but I'm specifically looking for a replacement bowl that includes a valve.

This may seem like a very minor issue but I'm having to drain the water every other fill up. Of course, it sounds like I need to find a better source for diesel...which I intend to do.

diesel85 · Nov 30, 2019

You might be able to get creative and put your own screw valve on it.

However, hands down, I've never had an issue with a Racor on larger equipment.

FWIW, knock on wood... I've never had an issue with fuel gelling on my machine.

(Now I've certainly jinxed it... lol)

RickB · Nov 30, 2019

You are looking for a band aid instead of fixing the problem. Quit pouring water into your fuel tank.

marrt · Dec 1, 2019

RickB said:
Quit pouring water into your fuel tank.

Yes, that would help. My father used to deliver fuel to service stations. One day, while getting fuel, he noticed a truck by the underground tanks and asked if I knew what the guy was doing. I didn't. My father informed me he was pumping water from the bottom of the tank. He suggested I find another source for fuel as their tanks likely had a water problem. I immediately knew he was right because I'd noticed some of their pumps would discharge fuel VERY slowly. This is usually because the water filter on the pump is fuel of water. Less than 6 months later, they dug up those tanks and replaced them.

I've gotten water at other fuel stations though. I live in a very small town and we only had 3 places to get fuel until recently. But today I found a source for off road diesel. I have 5 diesel machines and need a better fuel solution anyway. From their website, it seems I need a special "card" to use the station.

Next step is to get a better storage solution. These new fire proof cans are ok but it's impossible to dispense fuel without getting it all over me. Even then, it's a two person job because someone has to hold the funnel.

RjCorazza · Dec 1, 2019

Since you are currently using a funnel anyway, buy a "Mr Funnel" to catch water before it gets into the tractor. I realize you are currently evaluating fuel storage options, but water in the common rail machines is a disaster waiting to happen.

There are plenty of operators that have added racor filters to diesel equipment, but I don't recall reading of anyone replacing the OEM separator on an L series. Certainly doable, and Racor makes great filter products.

I personally use a truck mounted transfer tank with a 10 micron water blocking filter. I also try to keep the tractor tank full by fueling frequently.

BX23S-1 · Dec 3, 2019

Install one of these Kubota fuel filters and solve all your water issues. Shut the valve off, remove the cup, dump the water out, reassemble.

Amazon.com: New Kubota Fuel Filter Assembly L5

L5

L524 L545 L574: Automotive