Air bubbles in the diesel??

MULLEY · Post by **MULLEY** » Thu Jul 12, 2007 11:00 pm

Noticed the other day whilst i was under the bonnet, that the pipe from the fuel filter that goes into the pump, that there were air bubbles going through it.

Before anyone asks how i can see throught black pipework, my car is special and has had a clear section added between the black bits of pipe, so i can see the fuel.

The bubbles werent continous, just now & again, but were largish in size.

Is this a precursor to a major problem or doesnt it matter?

Post by **docchevron** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 2:39 am

IF the cars running ok I shouldn't worry too much, I've seen loads of diesels that get bubbles through the lines that run just fine

Philip Chidlow · Post by **Philip Chidlow** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 10:17 am

The old adage, 'if you look for trouble you'll find trouble' applies here. Don't worry if it's running OK.

Stewart (oily!) · Post by **Stewart (oily!)** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 10:53 am

If you are really paranoid why not buy yourself a length of fuel leakoff pipe from your factors and replace them, easily within your capabilities and insurance against future trouble.
Stewart

cavmad · Post by **cavmad** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 11:05 am

Hmm, tricky. I can't recommend my normal repairs of turning the radio up or hitting with a hammer!

Best ignore it I reckon, if the car's running ok it shouldn't be a problem.

jeremy · Post by **jeremy** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 11:33 am

Maintaining a car - of whatever make is always a matter of skill and judgment. You'll always know that some component isn't as good as new but the judgment comes in assessing if its going to be a problem, kill you or damage something else - or if it'll go on for a while longer or even for ever.

You'll know from reading this board that air can get into the system from numerous causes:

Low fuel level
rotten steel pipes from tank to engine
rubber pipe connections to steel pipes.
fuel heater (pre-black filter cars)
priming bulb (both bulb type and filter mounted)
filter housings (both)
more rubber pipe connections
Leakoff pipes (Bosch pump only - they still fail on Roto-Diesel but just smell and dump fuel over the engine and road)

So there's a preliminary check list - and the question you have to ask yourself is 'Are any of these likely to be the cause of the problem - and what am I going to do about it?'

The air itself isn't causing any problems at the moment - but is your car trying to tell you something?

Post by **docchevron** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 12:02 pm

jeremy wrote: but is your car trying to tell you something?

Yeah, I reckon your car is trying to tell you to abuse it Mulley!!
It loves it when your harsh and manly with it!

cavmad · Post by **cavmad** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 12:08 pm

/\

You really should have your own 'Dear Deidre' type car repair forum mate!

Post by **docchevron** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 12:10 pm

Now theres a thought...

Actually that gives me an idea!

cavmad · Post by **cavmad** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 12:33 pm

Go for it mate, charge a quid per answer and before you know it you'll be able to afford to permanently hire some dusky maidens to clean your cars for you.
Mmm, topless car wash

Post by **docchevron** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 12:38 pm

desperate Xantia owner wrote: Dear Doc, I've been seeing this xantia for weeks now, I've put the finest fuel in her, serviced her regularly, tucked her up at night and never smoked near her.
But despite all this she keeps breaking down on me, refuses to go to the pub on a saturday and she's starting to sag...
What should I do?

Well my son, you've made an easy mistake!
Whilst xantia's may seem like sprightley, goes all night, savage vixens, they are in fact all in their late forties, carrying some extra weight, and are mentally unstable..

Dump the confused wench and get yourself a new ho!

cavmad · Post by **cavmad** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 4:27 pm

MULLEY · Post by **MULLEY** » Fri Jul 13, 2007 7:18 pm

Seems to be running fine, so will leave well alone.....cheers guys