Can anyone estimate how old this fuel filter is?

[Ken4]

I recently purchased a 1987 MB260E with 224k miles. I changed the fuel filter. Replacement is Knecht KL38. Curious as I am, I decided to cut open the old fuel filter. I have no idea whether the previous owner ever changed filters. Could it be that this was the OEM filter? When I cut it open, there were no sparks from my cutting tool, so I suppose the housing is aluminium. The outside of the filter element still looks clean as a whistle. But when I started unfolding the paper element, it was black inside! When my fingers touched the black paper, my fingers became filthy black too. I dont think it is a discolouration of the paper, it is really dirty! I dont quite understand the principle of the fuel flow, the fuel seems to have to flow between the circular folds of the paper element, rather than thru the paper element. Here are the pics:

Fuel Filter 1

Fuel Filter 2

Fuel Filter 3

Fuel Filter 4

Fuel Filter 5

 

[DavoNF]

Ken4,

It looks like it's been on since 1987.

That black stuff could be "fuel bug" contamination, but that occurs more often in diesel fuels. Caused by microbial or fungal growth in water/fuel interface in the tank.

You could try a bug killer if the stuff is still active.

That is a huge filter BTW.


Dave

 

[terryr]

My neighbor was having problems with his ford truck stumbling and stalling. After awhile I found out that Fords have 2 fuel filters; the round can, and an insert inside a plastic housing. The filter inside that was solid black! Amazing it ran at all.

 

[shortyb]

I agree, looks original. Nice floor BTW

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