IDI Won't Start/Hard To Start Thread
#1
IDI Won't Start/Hard To Start Thread
Figured I'd start this for the FAQ since it's got to be the #1 issue for the IDI, especially for new owners.
Or it at least rivals the 'need more power' threads,
This should at least give a guideline for those researching the problem so they know what they're looking for in the rest of the FAQ, be it fuel problems, glow plug problems, etc.
I'll start with this post I just made and will add links to other informative info as it pops up and of course add what you know!!
Or it at least rivals the 'need more power' threads,
This should at least give a guideline for those researching the problem so they know what they're looking for in the rest of the FAQ, be it fuel problems, glow plug problems, etc.
I'll start with this post I just made and will add links to other informative info as it pops up and of course add what you know!!
Let's be clear on the terminology here; (Really helps all of us to be on the same page to avoid confusion.)
"Cranking over" means when you turn the key the starter engages and turns the engine over for the starting process. (The phrase "turning over" also means the same thing.)
"Starting" means just that, the engine has started and you have released the key and the starter has disengaged.
If an engine will not 'crank over' it is: (one or more)
1) Low or dead battery (batteries)
2) Bad cables and/or connections
3) Bad starter relay
4) Bad starter
5) Faulty ignition switch
6) Wiring problem between ignition switch and relay.
If an engine will 'crank over' but does not start it is: (one or more)
1) No fuel***
3) Air intrusion
4) Faulty glow plug system.
***No fuel could be no fuel in the tanks, faulty fuel tank switch, bad lift pump, bad IP, plugged fuel filter, or cone of failure failure.
This of course assumes the engine has enough compression to run and has no serious internal failures.
It can also be noted that the alternator and voltage regulator have nothing to do with an engine starting or running. All they do is keep the batteries charged while the engine is running.
You can take your alternator and regulator out, throw them in the trash, (or give them to your local tweaker so he can recycle the copper and make $3.), and your truck will still start and run just fine.
"Cranking over" means when you turn the key the starter engages and turns the engine over for the starting process. (The phrase "turning over" also means the same thing.)
"Starting" means just that, the engine has started and you have released the key and the starter has disengaged.
If an engine will not 'crank over' it is: (one or more)
1) Low or dead battery (batteries)
2) Bad cables and/or connections
3) Bad starter relay
4) Bad starter
5) Faulty ignition switch
6) Wiring problem between ignition switch and relay.
If an engine will 'crank over' but does not start it is: (one or more)
1) No fuel***
3) Air intrusion
4) Faulty glow plug system.
***No fuel could be no fuel in the tanks, faulty fuel tank switch, bad lift pump, bad IP, plugged fuel filter, or cone of failure failure.
This of course assumes the engine has enough compression to run and has no serious internal failures.
It can also be noted that the alternator and voltage regulator have nothing to do with an engine starting or running. All they do is keep the batteries charged while the engine is running.
You can take your alternator and regulator out, throw them in the trash, (or give them to your local tweaker so he can recycle the copper and make $3.), and your truck will still start and run just fine.
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Tony Leverington
Pre-Power Stroke Diesel (7.3L IDI & 6.9L)
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05-07-2017 10:00 AM