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Old Oct 11, 2010 | 05:38 PM
  #1  
ghost007's Avatar
ghost007
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Joined: Jul 2010
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hard starting

hi all my 7.3 idi has been starting hard plugs and plug relay is working fine but it still dont fire over

any suggestions
 
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Old Oct 11, 2010 | 05:57 PM
  #2  
swooshcmk's Avatar
swooshcmk
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Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 950
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From: West Bend
Check your cold start high idle solenoid on the pump to make sure it's working. You can just jumper 12v to it. When you first turn the ignition on it should enable that solenoid and you'll have to press the pedal down about 1/2 way and release to set it.

Next to check is the internal IP advance. This is easiest to check when warm. Jumper 12v to it and the tone of the engine should change to sound like a powerstroke and then quiet down when you remove the 12v. If both test OK by jumping 12v but don't work on their own with the key on, the next thing to check is the cold start temperature switch screwed into the block next to the upper thermostat housing/hose. It's got 2 spade prongs on it. That might be bad or not be getting 12v to it from the ignition.
 
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Old Oct 11, 2010 | 06:26 PM
  #3  
FORDF250HDXLT's Avatar
FORDF250HDXLT
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 20,378
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From: Mi'kma'ki
the first thing i always suggest for a hard starting idi is the starting system.
your objective is simple:
get the engine to turn over super fast,not even worrying about if it fires yet or not.
it should turn over so fast,you cant count the revolutions.almost spins so fast it kinda sounds like its running without the diesel knock and exhaust sounds.
the starter,the batteries,cables,terminals and all contact points,such as the starter connections and grounds want to be very clean and greased.
once the engine spins incredibly fast,it's then time to inspect the glow plug system.starting with a quick test light method of the glow plugs,and go from there.
next is to move onto a quick test of the fuel pressure and flow using the valve by the filter.
good compression is key.an old worn out engine down on compression is going to be a hard starting idi.
never diagnose with parts.there's no need.these are rigs are very basic and easy to diagnose.diagnose first.buy parts after.
 
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