Fuel thermostat - leaking diesel

[nrl073]

I noticed a pool of diesel underneath my 1990 300D and narrowed the location to the fuel thermostat. With the help of this forum, I ordered a replacement o-ring which is on the way.

In the meantime, I removed the fuel thermostat and left the hoses that flow into it unplugged.

This might sound stupid, but a few hours later, I notice a flood of diesel running down the driveway. I saw it was dripping fairly quickly from the inline fuel filter, so I capped her off - no problems.

My question is this - would my tank have drained out if I had not capped off the hose? Is there something wrong here that I am missing?

The tank is full of diesel and the car is parked on level ground.

[kerry]

I believe so. I'm not familar with the model in question, but if the fuel hose is not plugged, there's nothing to stop the fuel from running out of the tank.

[sixto]

The fuel tank is very high in your car compared with cars that have the fuel tank under the trunk. It will drain even on level ground if you have a leak or loose fitting.

Sixto
87 300D

[gary jenkins]

the change in diesel has hit us all. i've done my delivery valves [o rings copper washers] and all fuel hoses in 1 mo.

[muleears]

If you need the car just bypass the thermostat, I doubt you need it in GA anyway.

[nrl073]

Originally Posted by muleears

If you need the car just bypass the thermostat, I doubt you need it in GA anyway.

Ah! I never thought of that. I have been driving the wife's car all week waiting for the seal.

So I would go from the inline filter to where exactly? I think I can work it out, but just want to be sure.