leaky main fuel filter
 

I've done a search concerning the leaky main filter around the bolt
I really coudn't find anything that delt with this problem. I changed the cooper washer and tightened the bolt as much I would dare, I have a tendecy of over tightening, But to no avail, it still leaking. Is there something I'm not doing? it seems pretty straight forward. I know it's the right filter(Fram) Appreciate any help. (Sorry, 1983 300D)

If you are using a Fram, you are using the lowest quality fuel filter you can buy for your car and it probably don't fit proper to boot. Also these filters require a rather high torque to seal.

On the bolt is an O ring. Pull the bolt all the way out and u will see it. Change that O ring and install with a new washer. Torque to 22Nm.

If u do not see a O ring on the bolt, u need to get one.

If you over tighten the filter, the rubber seal on top of the filter tears and leaks occur.. This happened to me recently.

The only time I've seen a filter like this fail to seal is when they are not tight or if the seal was not oiled to prevent bunching and tearing. 25 NM = 18 lbs/ft

If it's leaking around the top of the bolt on to the top of the housing, then it's leaking due to lack of proper torque or bad washer. Usually the washer can be used more then once without problems. I have seen these type of fittings (banjo) that have a score under the bottom of the bolt head or on the fitting and cause leaking, which no amount of tighting can prevent. I also have seen some of these type of fittings have a steel washer used by mistake on occasion, and they will leak as mine did when I bought the car. The PO or tech had used a steel washer instead of copper washer on the car and it would leak. I just went to a local and bought several to have just in case.