Truck Repair: cummins fuel run back, dodge 2500 cummins, chevy engines

Question
Hi i hae a 2001 24 valve dodge 2500 cummins, and it has a problem with the fuel running back in it... When the truck sits shut off for at least 4-5 hours the fuel will run back. When i start it i have to bump the starter to make the pump kick in and prime, i then start it and let it run for 10 mins, if not it will run bad (no power) and white smoke for about 5 miles then all is good again. I was wondering what the problem might be if its air leak in lines, pump or just anything regarding fuel

Answer
Hello James,
I have had the same problem on Chevy engines. On them, the fuel filter base has a sensor set into the base, sealed with an O ring. The O ring would dry and crack, and overnight the same thing would happen.
I have not personally seen the problem on a Cummins, but have no doubt it exists.\
Something needs to let air in, or the fuel can't drain back.
The air leak is probably not in a pressure line, although it could be.

i would check filter seals, especially filters above tank level.

Return lines from the injectors are also a possible area.

Some return lines have a check valve. If you have one, make sure it isn't partially blocked by some foreign object, like hose pieces or something like that.

Van