What causes air leakage from the small hole of the oil-water separator?
3 Answers
Air leakage from the small hole of the oil-water separator is due to damage to the pressure gauge itself. Here is additional information: 1. Pressure gauge damage: When the internal structure of the pressure gauge is partially not tightly sealed, deformed, or damaged, the measured pressure substance may leak out through the damaged part of the pressure gauge. It is recommended to consider replacing the pressure gauge with one of the same range and purpose to prevent further issues from using a damaged pressure gauge. 2. Function of the oil-water separator: The oil-water separator mainly removes impurities and water based on the density difference between water and fuel, using the principle of gravity sedimentation. It also contains separation components such as diffusion cones and filter screens inside. The oil-water separator has other functions, such as preheating the fuel to prevent wax formation and filtering impurities.
I've driven trucks for many years and encountered the issue of air leakage from the small hole in the fuel-water separator several times, always noticing it after long-distance hauls. The main causes include aging and wear of the sealing ring—over time, the rubber hardens and cracks. Another reason is improper tightening during installation, such as loose bolts or dust and debris clogging the hole, leading to air leakage. Environmental factors also play a role, like component expansion and contraction under high temperatures, which reduces sealing effectiveness. Corrosion is another common problem, especially in rainy and muddy areas where moisture leads to rust holes. I remember during the last inspection, a small crack was found causing leakage, and replacing the sealing ring fixed it. I recommend regular maintenance and cleaning to prevent sudden failures that could affect driving.
As a car repair enthusiast, from a technical perspective, air leakage from the small hole in the oil-water separator is generally caused by seal failure or abnormal internal pressure. The sealing ring material deteriorates over time, losing elasticity and becoming prone to leakage when heated. Alternatively, the hole may be clogged with sludge, obstructing airflow and causing leaks. I've dealt with this issue before and found that excessive pressure is also common, such as from an overly powerful oil pump or system design flaws, forcing gas to escape through the small hole. Simply put, checking the condition of the sealing ring and keeping the passage clean is crucial—avoid using low-quality replacement parts. Regular cleaning of carbon deposits and moisture can significantly extend its lifespan and prevent overall vehicle performance degradation.
