Hard start

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Sep 11, 2021 | 03:04 PM

wkf94025

Thread Starter

Mountain Pass

Joined: Feb 2021

Posts: 200

Likes: 36

From: NorCal

Hard start

My '97 PSD used to start very quickly once I turned the key. Now, it takes a couple seconds of cranking before it fires. And then while idling, one of the red battery lights goes on/off intermittently. I haven't been driving it a lot the past few months, and I have been lazy with my trickle charger. I haven't put OBDII scanner on it yet, nor tested either battery. Just curious if the above symptoms would suggest a likely culprit or two, and/or what other simple tests I should consider? Very much hope this is battery-related, and not fuel system related.

Sep 11, 2021 | 04:03 PM

Bitterroot Diesel

Former Vendor

Joined: Sep 2020

Posts: 2,597

Likes: 695

From: Florence, MT

I recommend getting your batteries load tested.

Sep 11, 2021 | 05:28 PM

96 OBS

Laughing Gas

Joined: Oct 2019

Posts: 949

Likes: 109

From: Fowler Colorado

Check the little plug on top of the alternator if it’s loose it’ll make that battery light flicker if it comes off the light will always be on

Sep 11, 2021 | 05:28 PM

96 OBS

Laughing Gas

Joined: Oct 2019

Posts: 949

Likes: 109

From: Fowler Colorado

Bet I agree have your batteries load tested

Sep 12, 2021 | 10:23 AM

wkf94025

Thread Starter

Mountain Pass

Joined: Feb 2021

Posts: 200

Likes: 36

From: NorCal

Thanks Gents. As I ran various errands throughout the day, the starting behavior became more and more like it used to be -- firing quickly after a brief crank period. Guessing my batteries aren't in top condition, and I need to get back in the habit of trickle charger when weeks w/o driving go by...

Sep 12, 2021 | 07:16 PM

Hit Man X

Lead Driver

Joined: Sep 2002

Posts: 9,550

Likes: 2,034

From: North Texas

My pal has good luck with 'Battery Tender' brand trickle chargers. I think it does 4A.

You may want to snoop for anything parasitic drawing your batts down.