88 7.3 Hard Start Problems

[loscroce]

Recently purchased an 88 E350 with7.3 IDI. Runs and pulls like a bat outta hell, but always has a problem starting when cold. Doesn't matter whether its warm or cold out, first start in the morning can take up to 10 trys. Once its running, no more start problems for the rest of the days use. I have read that this a problem with this particular engine, but that there are remedies. I have replaced the glow plugs, glow plug relay, injection pump, fuel filter, starter, 2-new batteries. All pressures and electrical stats are on the money. Have records for her for the last 10 years and every year it got a new starter, batteries, glow plugs. Don't want to continue this, but solve the problem. Love the van and would like to keep her, but have to solve this problem or its bye bye for her. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance for any responses.

[ltfox]

One thing to check is the injector return lines. If they are bad the will leak and let air bleed back into the system. Most start to rot and crack after a while.

[loscroce]

Thanks for the info. I just ordered a set from Dieselmann's site. Let you know if it works out.

[Dave Sponaugle]

Hope you got the O rings as well, once you disturb the return tee's they will leak as well.

[Mike 84]

Do you by chance park at night with the front pointed uphill? I had an 88 F-450 that if parked overnight in this manner would be very hard to start the next morning, summer or winter. If parked with the front downhill it would start like it is supposed to. If yours will start after trying this you have a leak somewhere in your fuel system allowing air to enter when front of vehicle is sitting higher than rear of vehicle.