One of the tasks on my maintenance list on the new 310 L was to drain the water and sediment out of the 34 gallon fuel tank. Right now, it's about 7/8 full. I have nightmares of pulling the plug, and not being able to rethread the plug back in, causing 30 gallons of diesel to spill in the driveway. I plan on eventually put a ball valve in line with the drain, and then the plug so I can thread in the plug without the pressure of 33 gallons of diesel opposing that operation, but I can't do that until the tank is drained down. Curious about people's thoughts about this. It's the only thing left on the preventative maintenance list.
Not sure on the best way to handle your dilemma, but don't think a valve would be your best option for the future. If you operate in any rough conditions you'll probably rip that valve off and have a much bigger problem.
I am with berky. I have had my machine in mud so deep the tank was on the ground. Also, a stick (log), or rock, would tear it off. Personally, I would just run it down low on fuel and do this. I have done it on my machine, but would not do it regularly, but rather every couple of years. Your inline filters will remove the water, and are a lot easier to drain.
I third the no ball valve. Run it down as swetz said and then drain out the rest. Whatever you do though, do not run the machine empty. I did that once on my 555e and it was a PITA to prime and start.
Go get a barrel pump and put it in through the fill port. You can take the screen off the bottom of the suction pipe and pump the crap into a bucket.
What John said or get one of these handy extractors. https://www.ebay.com/itm/2548915173...FNM5yZijHW09XmiVnagpcwffE8cwIbRRoCaOIQAvD_BwE You can vacuum the bottom of the tank and then put it in a quart jar to give it a good examination. That will bring you some peace of mind. I have one and use it for oil changes and all sorts of work.
This sounds like a job for The Suck Bucket . HeavyEquipmentForums Joe H