Replaced Fuel Filter - coupling leaks - help

[993_996_enthusiast]

Help Please. (I did a search but didn't find what I needed.)

As a preventative maintenance measure I replaced the original fuel filter on my 2004 996 GT3. I checked for fuel leaks by bump starting the engine to fill the new filter and build pressure. The fuel hose metal coupler to the metal fitting on the filter is seaping fuel to the extent it drips.

I checked the condition of all the couplings prior to installation and did not see any obvious flaws. I hand tightened the hose coupler to filter and then did the counter hold process while tightening them using wrenches. With the fittings snug there is very very little rotation of the coupler before getting a lot of resistance (feels tight). If you have done this chore you know there is not much room to work in. Anyway, I do not want to overtighten so I have been very careful and am looking for guidance.

UPDATE :D I was able to get guidance from an excellent Porsche dealership technician. He instructed me to separate the couplings and double check their condition. He said when you connect them and turn the coupler with your fingers ensure the ball seat is aligned straight, not canted. The gap between the coupler and the filter fitting should be almost identical all the way around. The coupler covers all the threads too. Then he said it is matter of having the right length 19 mm wrenches to tighten the fittings within the tight maneuver space in that area of the engine compartment. I did incremental steps of tightening until there were was no fuel seaping.

This photograph is of the original filter. Brass colored connectors with red paint dots is the area of fuel leak after replacing the filter.

Edited January 20, 2009 by 993_996_enthusiast