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felizcortez · 24-05-2019, 17:08

I replaced my secondary fuel filter last weekend and I am leaking diesel fuel from I believe the top bleed point of the secondary filter. I had quite a bit of fuel on the absorbent pad after motoring for 10 hours this weekend and the side of the fuel filter was covered in fuel. The top bleed point ont he filter housing seems to be leaking from the banjo bolt. I tightened it and it seems to help - I don't believe it's leaking anymore, but I have a few questions.

1. Are you supposed to replace the banjo washers each time you replace the filter? I'm assuming they are crush washers so they eventually go bad.
2. The parts manual recommends part number Westerbeke 11944 which I believe is for an M10 bolt. Does anyone know where I can find the dimensions of this washer so I can find a suitable replacement? I'd like to have a spare for when we leave in case the leak gets bad. I am in Mexico so it might not be possible to purchase the westerbeke part directly.

Dsanduril · 24-05-2019, 17:29

Sorry, don't know the dimensions, and names in Mexico might be a bit tricky, but I've switched most of my copper washers to Dowty washers (generically "bonded seals"). These are a metal washer with a bonded pliable seal (various materials available for compatibility). Makes things much easier and I've had fewer drips. Take the banjo into a good parts store and they should be able to size a Dowty or a plain old copper washer.

Do use care in sizing where a copper washer might also be a spacer/shim, but otherwise the bonded seals are nice.

boatnerd · 25-05-2019, 00:46

On our westerbeke (4107) secondary filter there are 2 size 10mm copper crush washers.
#1 is 10mm ID, 14mm OD. There are 2 of these on the return line banjo on the top of the housing.
#2 is 10mm ID, 17.5mm OD. For the banjos on the side.
You might get lucky and find these in Mexico. Bueno suerte!

jamhass · 25-05-2019, 10:05

If they are indeed copper, you can anneal them with a propane torch. This will soften them enough to allow them to seal again. If they are significantly marred, sand them smooth (carefully) first.