Slow fill diesel fuel problem

[jimmccreary]

For 2 years I have struggled with a slow fill problem with the fuel tank. With any reasonable flow at all, fuel spray would come out of the filler neck and turn off the fuel nozzle. The problem was so bad that I could not set the small diesel fuel nozzle or the large diesel fuel nozzle to the first click. In fact I had to hold the pump on at a very slow fill rate. I read others on this forum but could not find a specific fix that would work for me. Both Winnebago and Freightliner were cordial but after informing me that my tank was not one that was recalled they both declined any specific help. After calling around various RV repair shops I finally found Leales RV who was willing to provide a custom fix for me.



On my coach model there are several problems that had to be overcome:

• the vertical drop from filler neck to fuel tank opening was only about 9 inches
• the first 18 in of the filler tube was horizontal without any slope at all
• the rest of the filler tube consisted of two 90 degree turns
• the 5/8 inch air tube between the fuel tank and the filler neck appeared to be pinched because it had to pass through the same 3.5 inch hole in the frame as the fuel filler tube

The solution involved a new 2 inch inner diameter flexible fuel hose that eliminated the 90 degree turns and provided a gradual downhill slope of the fuel tube. The air tube was replaced with new tube and routed slightly higher through the 3.5 inch hole so that liquid could not be trapped in the tube. Finally a ½ inch inner diameter copper tube was inserted into the air tube as it passed through the 3.5 inch hole allowing no possibility that the air tube could be pinched off.

At my first visit to the diesel fuel pump (larger nozzle) I was able to latch the fuel flow switch to the highest flow position. The pump did turn off automatically when the tank was full.

After 2 years of frustration I am no longer holding up others at the fuel pump.
Hope this helps someone else.

Jim & Debbie, 04 Journey 34H

[Grimesy]

I went around and around with Winnebago over this very same problem. A case of poor engineering and a total lack of corporate responsibility. I must say that Freightliner said they would pay for the labor but the parts had to be purchased through Winnebago to the tune of $500.

Don, WIT 70041

[Phelpo]

Thanks Jim for the info. Mine is a 2004 and the only real trouble I have
is the last 20-25 gallons. I need to get under the rig and check out the
air vent line.

Does your rig only have 1 fill side?

Phelpo

[jimmccreary]

Phelpo,
I have only 1 fill on the drivers side. By extending my slide and removing the mud flap under the wheel well I was able to inspect the entire filler tube.
hope this helps,
jim & debbie, 04 Journey 34H