* The sensor is malfunctioning: It might need replacement. These sensors can fail due to age, corrosion, or damage.
* There's actually water in your fuel: This is the more serious issue. You need to drain the water from your fuel system and find the source of the leak. This could be a compromised fuel tank, a bad fuel filter, or contaminated fuel.
To address a problem with your water-in-fuel sensor or water in your fuel system, you should:
1. Verify the problem: Is the sensor light illuminated on your dash? Is there visible water in your fuel filter housing when you drain it? Get a reliable code reader to check for trouble codes related to the fuel system.
2. Drain the water (if present): Locate the water drain valve(s) on your fuel filter housing and/or fuel tank. Carefully drain any accumulated water.
3. Replace the fuel filter: A new fuel filter will help remove any remaining water and contaminants.
4. Check for leaks: Inspect fuel lines, connections, and the fuel tank for any leaks or damage.
5. Replace the sensor (if necessary): If you've ruled out water in the fuel and the sensor is still malfunctioning (and you have verified this with a code reader or through testing), you'll need to replace the water-in-fuel sensor. This usually involves removing the old sensor and installing a new one in its place. You'll need a repair manual or access to online resources specific to your 1997 Powerstroke to guide you through the specifics of sensor location and replacement.
Important: Working on a diesel fuel system requires caution. Diesel fuel is flammable, and you should always work in a well-ventilated area. If you're not comfortable performing these repairs yourself, take your truck to a qualified mechanic.
