Changed the fuel filter and now the engine doesn't start

[ProblematicMan]

Hi, I am absolutely new to the mechanic world, but have been reading and learning a lot.

Yesterday I changed the fuel filter of my Vito W638, and it didn't start anymore. I also disassembled the EGR to see how dirty it was, to discover it had a "plug" to make it not to work.

I don't know if while changing the fuel filter some air entered in the system, or what happened, but I put again the old fuel filter, which worked. Still the engine don't start.

I recorded a video to show you exactly what happens when igniting.

Watch unnamed | Streamable

Watch "unnamed" on Streamable.

streamable.com

I need your help! Surely it is a very easy thing to do when you know it, but I don't know.

Thanks

 

[Burnerman]

Yes, the system needs bleeding.
Often enough, the cranking of the engine will get it going again but your battery seems a little weak.
Basically the fuel filter canister needs to be full of diesel after the filter change. Is there a bleed nipple on the top of it?
A picture of the filter would be a real help.
John

 

[DIYspanner]

This video may be some use.

If not the correct year/model, there'll likely be a video to suit somewhere on YT.

 

[Notch7]

My Mondeo had that after my mechanic did a service, he got it going but it kept happening, he then replaced the fuel filter for another one in case there it was faulty, but I’m actually still getting the issue sometimes and it looks like it might be an injector failing triggered by air through it.

 

[carmanmemoranda]

Fuel filters on diesels can be a real pain.

I'm guessing high (ish) mileage which always makes them worse.

But basically you have introduced air into the system and need to purge it. Either by a primer (if fitted) or usually by sucking diesel right through the filter and sealing it quickly. Then consistent higher revs on starting until it runs right. Without a very strong battery or compressor and suction you are going to struggle. Try it with easy start maybe, but as little as possible

I'd never recommend it because of no lubrication but if it's essential, towing it with another vehicle will overcome the air. But it can do damage.

It's 1 of those jobs where it is worth paying a garage for their experience and equipment. Too late now though.

 

[RrogerD]

Just replaced the fuel filter on my Transit Custom. 20 min job. Basically, refill caninster with diesel before reattaching to vehicle means there's fuel there any ready. Plus, turning ignition on, wait 20 secs and turn off again. Do this five times and it primes the system.
Admittedly, the first start did sound a little disjointed but then after it has been fine.

 

[ProblematicMan]

Now it is working!

I had to use the primer (didn't know it was called this). 4 times I had to do it. I mean, push it till it is hard, then try to ignite, do it again, ignite,... And at the end it worked, with the new filter.

Many thanks for the help!
Merry Christmas!

 

[carmanmemoranda]

Now it is working!

I had to use the primer (didn't know it was called this). 4 times I had to do it. I mean, push it till it is hard, then try to ignite, do it again, ignite,... And at the end it worked, with the new filter.

Many thanks for the help!
Merry Christmas!

Good news. If it helps I've sometimes needed to do it a lot more than 4 times !

If parking it up over Xmas, check it again before you rely on it. It should be ok, but air in diesel can bite twice !

Merry christmas.

 

[Mottie]

I hate push button primers like the Ford Escorts/Fiestas used to have. Not used for months, sometimes years, change the filter, prime it and the diaphragm in the primer splits. New primer needed.