Does anyone know of a good mechanic that works with ambulances (E350)? I have an old one I converted to run on used vegetable oil, but the engine won't start or cuts out. It feels like the diesel is not getting to the engine (nothing to do with the veggie oil line going into the engine). I've had it in a local shop in Laurel (between DC and Baltimore) several times, but they can't seem to fix it. Thanks for any mechanic tips!

 

Try contacting Shaun, fire240. He works evenings, so may not be on until late afternoon. He lived in/near Dundaulk. He may or may not be able to help you.

Has it been running on the veggie before - or was it just converted? What year is it? Is it a 7.3 - N/A or turbo?

 

Thanks, Bud. It is a 1989 Ford E350 with a 7.3. I had the veggie tank put in last year, when I bought it. It already had problems starting up, but it has gotten progressively worse.

 

I would start with the glow plugs/module. I had a '92 that had a problem starting and it had 4 bad glow-plugs. Replaced them and no more problems.... If I remember correctly, they can be tested with an ohm-meter. Have you asked about this up in the 7.3 forum? Lots of experts there..... here's a link https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/forum117/

Here's alink to the glow plug troubleshooting section. https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/9...le-system.html

 

There used to be an AWESOME diesel mechanic at Crystal Ford in Silver Spring named Mike, and the service writer was Rich. I don't know if they're still there, but it is definitely worth calling over there to see. I was wracking up MAD miles on my 7.3 and was in there 2 or 3 times a month for basic services and Mike caught a few potential issues while they were very minor before they became major fixes. I know they work on ambulances and RVs

 

When was the last time you changed fuel filters?

 

the bio diesel needs to be heated a bit 1st before it will combust properly. some people run a return line through the other tank, to pre heat the bio. after starting on the regular diesel, and heating the bio tank, then switch over. you will use a boat load of fuel filters on the bio,unless you filter it before putting it in the tank. most people run a 2nd set of filters before the filter that's on the engine. Bud is right about the glow plugs, that needs to be right before the engine will start. you need to also check for air leaks at the return lines, the orings get brittle over time, and create a air leak. hope this helps

 

,,,and here's the link to the sites bio/veggie forum.... Bio-diesel, Propane & Alternative Diesel Engine Fuels - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums