Cold Starts Questions
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Junior User
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 52
Likes: 1
From: Mississippi
Cold Starts Questions
I've been having to plug truck in when temps drop to 55 or below to prevent it from rough idle until engine temp gets up 
Could it be weak glow plugs?
How do you check them?
Is there anything out there that monitors them?
Is there an underlined issue other than the glow plugs?
It has always run a little rough at start up in the winter but usually when the temp drops below freezing. Now it sound like its coming apart if its not plugged up.
Could it be weak glow plugs?
How do you check them?
Is there anything out there that monitors them?
Is there an underlined issue other than the glow plugs?
It has always run a little rough at start up in the winter but usually when the temp drops below freezing. Now it sound like its coming apart if its not plugged up.
Lead Driver
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 7,838
Likes: 96
From: Manteca,Ca
On your Scan Gauge check first thing in the Morning before cranking with key on engine off.
FICM main should not be below 45v. Ya might want to check the Charging system, Both Battery's , Alternator and Cables
FICM main should not be below 45v. Ya might want to check the Charging system, Both Battery's , Alternator and Cables
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,589
Likes: 20
I don't believe it is a GP issue. Probably a FICM voltage issue. How many miles? If over 100K, could be FICM power relay. If your FICM voltage is not 48, it will take longer to start or will not start. Ask me how I know. Suggest you replace the relay before you press forward.
Ed
Ed
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Junior User
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 52
Likes: 1
From: Mississippi
Thanks for the info. FICM relay is on its way.......ordered it a couple days ago! I don't have a scan gauge II yet but I'm looking to get it very soon!!! I know all to well about the FICM voltage.......had it repaired and upgraded 3 - 4 yrs ago. Batteries are less than a year old but plan to have them load tested on my next day off.
Lead Driver
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 8,241
Likes: 155
From: L.A. (Lower Alabama)
Glow plug system is considered a part of the emissions systems. It's will turn on the Check Engine Light and set codes pretty reliably if there is an issue. The ScanGauge will read the glowplug codes reliably also.
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Lead Driver
Joined: May 2014
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From: Virginia Beach VA
You can get the scan gauge at Advanced Auto on line. Use TRT30 in the coupon code and then pick it up at your local store. That code saves you $50 off the price.
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Junior User
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 52
Likes: 1
From: Mississippi
I replaced the FICM power relay yesterday. This morning with a temp of 39 my truck started up with a little roughness and smoothed out within 10 seconds 
. This is much better than before replacing the relay!
. This is much better than before replacing the relay!
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