Return pipe on fuel filter CRD ZD30 (2010)

Hi all, I have read through many of the threads regarding the factory fuel filter but can't find what I am researching. I have had it with the factory filter, the guy I bought the vehicle from had nothing but grief and I have the same story (it leaks from the water sensor) new seal, new filter, teflon tape, $seal O ring, OVER IT. Anyhoo, I have bought a Ryco set up. Question is can I simply by-pass the filter with the return fuel. Join the pipe with a brass line joiner so it returns straight to the tank, OR do I need that fuel to provide sufficient fuel pressure on the in line? I am guessing there must be a reason for the return line to run to the factory filter then to the tank- unless they just do it for appearances.

Attachment 84346 Thought since I got no response I would go and do it any way. First time I routed the spiller fuel back to the filter and It started then cut out and wouldn't start. So I bypassed the filter with a straight barbed joiner. Turned it over and it started straight away. Any input? Seems strange no one can throw some light on things.
I will have to do something with the water sensor. I'll see if there is a thread on that.

You could bypass the return line.

It's purpose is to use heated returning fuel (from the engine) to warm the fuel in the filter, the OEM filter has a thermostatic valve which opens at a certain temp to allow the fuel to mix (not sure what the temp is).

In other places on the internet I've read that 60c is an ideal pre-combustion temp for diesel fuel to help with atomization from the injector nozzles.

FWIW.
The replacemnt filter setup is no way good enough to filter the fuel for a Common rail diesel motor. Branded depending, but that looks like a Ryco filter and they are only 15micron. The OEM filter would be around 6 micron. You will only be damaging your IP and injectors using this filter alone.