Technical 1996 Fiat Ducato 2.5 TDI Campervan - Fuel float replacement

[uuuysal]

Hello everyone,

I've just joined your community. Wishing you all a great day!

I have two issues with my 1996 Fiat Ducato 2.5 TDI Campervan, which I bought about four months ago.

The wipers were not working.
The fuel gauge always showed full.
To solve these problems, I bought a wiper motor and a fuel gauge float. I replaced both parts. The wipers started working without any issues. While replacing the fuel float, I could clearly see that the tank was full. However, I still wanted to fill the tank and monitor the gauge. Even though it seemed full, I managed to add approximately 25 liters of diesel.

When I checked the manhole where the float is located, I saw that the fuel had overflowed. I got home without any issues.

The next morning, before starting my journey, I started the vehicle. It ran for about 10 minutes, then stopped. When I tried to start it again, it emitted white smoke and wouldn't start.

I checked under the passenger seat and noticed wetness. At first, I thought it was related to diesel, but I suspect wiper fluid is somehow leaking into the car. I just hope it hasn't reached the engine!

What do you think the problem could be? Has anyone experienced a similar issue? I'm open to any ideas and suggestions.

Note: Before replacing the fuel float, I had no issues at all.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Communicator]

I think that you should consider the possibility of a cab heater radiator leak. This will leak into the LHS cab area, while screen washer fluid does not come into the cab.
If coolant has leaked into the tank it would settle to the bottom, and possibly be drawn towards the fuel pick up tube.
On an urgent basis check any water drain point at base of fuel filter.

I am not keen on TIA. Please post your findings on this thread, as it may help others.

 

[MrkT]

Hi,we have the same engine same year,and i have just literally taken out the fuel guage sender and cleaned the pick up filter. i would suspect you have got air in the system from removing the two pipes.(feed and return) it is very unlikely that washer fluid would have entered the tank.Bleed the system and fire it up. I've just realised your post was from 2 months ago.......please give feedback on how it went.