Now that it is getting cold I'm starting to have starting problems. The engine just cranks and cranks, to the point were smoke is coming out of the exhaust. If I crank in short burst, the engine will eventual start. can any one help.

 

That points to the glow plug solinoid,

But take your question to the 99-04 diesel forum and you will be served.

 

Sounds like your GPR is toast. Replacement with a NAPA replacement is about $60, If you get a GPR108 solenoid from Napa, it is about half price, but the oreintation of the terminals is 90 degrees off. I didn't have any problems with the cheaper GPR. All the leads had enough slack to reach.

That smoke you see out of the exhaust is RAW fuel. If you crank it that long to get it, the cold fuel is now cooling the combustion chamber, and it will never light off. the 7.3L's need four things for a successful winter start.

1. GOOD batteries and Cables. Voltages while cranking that fall below 10.5 volts will not power the ECM to start the engine.

2. Fresh ungelled fuel and a clean fuel filter.

3. Fresh oil. Heavily warn oil will not thin out like it's supposed to. That thick oil makes the oil pressure come up slower, slower cranking speeds, and increased cranking time. (the need for number 1 increases.)

4. Working glow plug system. Once your cranking and the oil pressure is up, the sub freezing fuel starts getting injected. Glow plugs will make all the difference in the world......

It was 31 degrees here this morning, two glow cycles, and truck started right up.....

 

at 30 degrees, my 02 will start within 5 revolutions of the engine after the glow plugs cycle.