How do you drain water from a fuel water separator?
HOW TO Drain Water Fuel Separator (Cummins X-15) - YouTube
Drain the water separator with the engine off , into a clear container to check for water , if you drain a few ounces and don't see water in the bottom under the fuel, your done.
You should drain water from the module assembly whenever the warning light comes on and the message center directs you to drain the water separator. This will occur when approximately 8.45 fl oz (250 ml) of water accumulates in the module.
NEVER open the drain on the fuel filter/water separator with the engine running. That primary fuel filter is on the vacuum/suction side of the engine fuel system. Rather than draining, it will suck air in.
- The first option is to siphon out the water contaminated fuel with a siphon kit using a hand pump. Make sure the hose is long enough to reach the bottom of the tank.
- Alternatively, you can add a fuel additive with a methanol base to help dilute the water fuel mixture.
Rubbing Alcohol. Rubbing Alcohol, a chemical that settles at the bottom of the diesel fuel tank and absorbs the water, can be used to remove water from the tank. Such a chemical will eventually flow through the engine and be combusted.
A full water separator means that water is now flowing into your fuel system. This water causes corrosion throughout the system including the internal transfer pump. This pump will then rust and isn't covered under warranty.
If you use gas w/ ethanol, you are bound to get some water in your fuel. Don't know what type of engine you have but Yamaha recommends every 50 hours. I agree with Bunger79 until you consistantly have a clean filter, then I would go to 100 hours.
You have to drain the Racor frequently. Our rule is every four hours of engine time or at the end of a day, whichever comes first. Dave has to use a small cup to catch the fuel and water that drains out, and it's hard to see the condition of the fuel in it.
Perkins Daily Engine Check Series: Water Separator Drain - YouTube
How do you clean a water separator?
- Turn off the influent water to the unit.
- Open the unit cover.
- Remove any oil and dispose of it in a way that complies with company and legal procedures.
- Drain the water from the separator.
- Measure the depth of the leftover solids and write it down. ...
- If necessary, dispose of the solids.
Keeping Diesel Fuel Clean Part III - Water Separators - Ask the Experts

The principle behind this filtration system is surprisingly simple; the top of the filter consists of a paper element and the bottom of the filter is a holding tank or bowl. Since water is heavier than petrol, water sinks to the bottom of the filter where it stays until it is emptied.
How to Drain an Airdog Fuel System Water Separator Filter - YouTube
First of all, you do not need to worry, this is a message indicating that the fuel water separator needs to be drained. Minimize driving until you can service the system to avoid water-related damage or contamination.
If you use gas w/ ethanol, you are bound to get some water in your fuel. Don't know what type of engine you have but Yamaha recommends every 50 hours. I agree with Bunger79 until you consistantly have a clean filter, then I would go to 100 hours.
Water buildup in the water separator that isn't drained will cause corrosion to the housing. This corrosion will spread to different parts of your fuel system including the engine. A simple fix is to drain this water when the "Water in Fuel" light illuminates and periodically install a new secondary fuel filter.
You have to drain the Racor frequently. Our rule is every four hours of engine time or at the end of a day, whichever comes first. Dave has to use a small cup to catch the fuel and water that drains out, and it's hard to see the condition of the fuel in it.
Cat® Wheel Loader Water Separator Information - YouTube