Hi all
I have to replace my TD5 complete fuel Filter ( WJN000020 ) as the bracket on the top is broken (It was cable tied when I bought it). The car has just had a complete service with all oils and filters etc 2 weeks ago just after I purchased it but the garage noted the broken bracket but did not replace it as I was already spending quite a bit of cash on the car getting the 100% sorted, now this filter bracket is the only thing left to do. I am competent DIY'er but inexperienced , so looking for some advice. Am I right in saying

1) Jack up the rear side and remove the wheel.
2) Remove the water sensor connector.
2) Unscrew the actual filter from the bottom
3) Remove the 4 pipes going from and to the filter (how are these connected?) make note which one is which.
4) Temporarily seal off the 4 pipes.
5) Remove the broken bracket and clean the chassis.
6) Spray the area with a bit of anti rust for good measure.
7) Fix the 4 pipes onto the new filter bracket.
8) Mount the bracket back onto the chassis.
9) Put the filter onto the bottom (can I re-used the old filter as its just 2 weeks old and I have only done 4 miles in it?) and reinstall the water sensor.
10) Install the new protective filter cover.
11) Turn the key to position 2 for second and then turn off 2 times to prime the filter.
12) Try to start the engine and once it fails and sprays diesel everywhere call out a friendly mechanic to fix it.

Does that sound about right, hopefully without step 12?

Pipes can be a PITA to disconnect from the fittings if they have not been off in a while, you can get special pliers to assist in the disconnection.

Cheers

if you fit a new filter head check the location of air bleed valve and one way if fitted,they have been know to be fitted in wrong fittings,once done switch ignition on and press accelerator pedal 5 times till engine light flashes, system will the purge,pipes have a coloured rubber cover which you slide back so as you can push connector further on then squeeze the 2 tabs in the pipe connector and pull back, refit the rubber covers on new unit before fitting the pipes

Thank you for the help Neil and James. I have run to my first problem, I don’t seem to have a fuel water sensor! I guess this is because one of two reasons.

1) not all Td5’s had water sensors installed.
2) The farmer that ownered it before damaged the mounting by driving over something which also ripped out the wire and sensor, so he had somebody disable the sensor in the ECU and never re-installed it. If this is the case I would like to re-install it but where is the sensor feed from as I can not see any damaged cables anywhere underneath?

you dont need a water sensor not all had them

Thanks James, that makes life easier and hence I could not find any evidence of a damaged cable.