yeah, about as minor a problem as you can have. running out of fuel is a bad thing for diesels, is that right? why is that? does it allow air into the system?

it's is still making the knocking noise, only at idle rpm. also strange is that the prefilter gets a lot of air in it, i mean maybe 1/3 air and 2/3 fuel. when i rev it up, the air gets pushed out. i think there's a leak somewhere in the fuel line around or before the prefilter. could that also be the cause of the knocking at idle?

heck, while i'm at it: something makes a squealing noise when i turn the wheel while moving, more noise to the right, less to the left. none when goin straight. none while standing still and turning the wheel. steering gearbox adjusted too tight, maybe? no, its the left front wheel bearing, i'd wager..

i never guessed how complicated some of these systems are.. but its great to put a dent into learning about it.

jeff