2002 F-250 7.3 l diesel leaking fuel at the fuel filter

Take it back sounds like you have a fuel leak probably at a injector or fuel rail

If you can access the lines and filter it wont be that hard, but you may need to buy special disconnect tools. Make sure you relive the fuel pressure before disconnecting anything.

air in the filter is a sign of a leak on a diesel check the lines for drips they will **** air from a small leak

Here is what my Haynes Diesel Engine Repair Manual says for a noticeable lack of power, which is what you are describing.
1. Blocked air intake
2.Incorrectly adjusted timing
3.Blocked or damaged exhaust system
4.Obstruction in fuel filter
5.Blocked fuel tank vacuum vent in fuel cap
6.Insufficient fuel supply from tank to injector pump
7.Obstruction in fuel tank filter
8. Pinched or restricted fuel return line
9. Incorrect or contaminated fuel
10.External compression leaks ( glow plugs or injectors)
11. Obstruction in injector nozzles
12.Low compression
This book has an excellent diagnosis and repair section for your engine. It's Haynes part #10330 and costs about $20. Hope this helps.

remove and have the injectors cleaned and set
leaking injectors will allow fuel in when not required causing the detonation

if this is an aftermarket filter, go get one from the dealer. if you have the old filter put this one back on at least so you can drive it. ive put out car fire and dragged people from them they are not fun.

Very concerned.Take it to a garage and have them look at where its leaking from.Torque converter oil seal it sounds like.

hello,seems you have a loose clamp in fuel hose or your fuel hose have crack in area of clamp,also you can visual check fuel supply line,fuel filter up to primary pump,ty

Doesn't sound serious yet. Take a good look for oil pan leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, oil filter, etc. just to know what it is. You may be able to get a clue from where the drops are.

Since you didnt notice any change in the performance of your engine, ill presume there's nothing wrong with your fuel injectors.
look for moisture around your gas tank cap, the hose and clamps going down the tank, around the fuel gauge sending unit of your tank. have your fuel line checked from the tank to your fuel injection pump, give particular importance around the connections of your fuel filter, fuel pump, and the return hose from your fuel injection going back to your tank.
Diesel do emit strong hazardous odors that may stick on carpets inside your car.