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Headache trying to bleed my fuel pump

Posted: 05 Apr 2026, 07:39
by aimlessrock
I changed the fuel filter in my van (1.9 AEF diesel) and I just can’t get the van to now start.


Any tips on how to best bleed the pump?

Thanks

Re: Headache trying to bleed my fuel pump

Posted: 05 Apr 2026, 11:33
by silverbullet
Did you prime the new filter with fresh fuel before fitting?

Re: Headache trying to bleed my fuel pump

Posted: 05 Apr 2026, 11:50
by davidoft1
Cranking over will prime it eventually, 30 seconds cranking at a time

Re: Headache trying to bleed my fuel pump

Posted: 05 Apr 2026, 12:54
by aimlessrock
Yeah I filled the filter with fuel and replaced the fuel line to the pump also.

I’ve just ordered an inline manual pump that I will also fit to save myself the headache of this when I next do the filter change.

Also, I cut open the used fuel filter open (was dated 2015) and it was full of brown sludge- possible fuel tank corrosion?

Re: Headache trying to bleed my fuel pump

Posted: 06 Apr 2026, 13:49
by silverbullet
Sludge is fungus that lives off the ethanol, its commonly called "diesel bug"

You shouldn't need a hand bulb to prime the system, must have an air leak thats preventing it from priming.

I'm no td expert, do they have a lift pump?

Re: Headache trying to bleed my fuel pump

Posted: 06 Apr 2026, 16:54
by axeman
recently changed my fuel filter and i installed a diesel priming pump in line between the filter and the pump, by squeezing the pump you force diesel from the tank through the filter towards the pump, when its solid crack the banjo that in to the pump to allow the fuel to flow out, tighten the banjo, the engine should start, once running crack each injector fuel pipe at the injector, only a little and that should clear any air along each injector line, 

neil