My father past on to me his 1990 f250 7.3 with banks turbo added with 195000 km.. Occassionally I have to try and start it a dozen times or better before it starts, even when warm, so I don't suspect glow plugs. Only a couple thousand klicks on the fuel filter and the water in fuel indicator only comes on when cranking which I think is normal. Someone suggested a problem with the fuel shut-off. Also this last week it's died just after starting but restarts and goes.
Appreciate any ideas. Thanx. Bear.

 

The fuel is bleeding out of the system. Either from the return lines on top of the injectors or the lift pump is weeping. The fuel system is a closed loop deal and if any air gets in, it will cause the fuel to flow out -- that thing called gravity. Try looking at the lift pump, (like a gas engine) and see if it is damp. Then get a return line kit and replace all the lines, o rings and caps. You may not see dampness on the return t's because sometimes they leak when shut down. I know that sounds silly, but it does happen. When you get everything done, use the block heater to preheat the engine for a few hours and it will help you get it running quicker and DONT crank on the starter too long. Hope this helps you out.

 

Thanks for the reply bilder12. The fuel filter is the highest part of the system and if the air bleeder's opened when cranking ....there's lots of fuel at that point. It will eventually start and then might not happen again for quit awhile. It can even sit for a week or 2 and start with no problem. But it's not getting fuel that's for sure. One thing that I've notice....on 2 different times it acted up after coming down from the mountains. Your advice makes sense and I'll check it out.

 

ut some auto tranny fluid in the fuel tanks, doesn't really matter how much, just depends on the erson, i wouldn't put more than a quart in each tank, but 2-stroke oil works good too. i think it may be just your fuel i.p. acting up a little, gettin sticky. its worth a shot. makes mine go good when the i.p. acts up. how does that banks turbo work?? i have been thinking about it for a long time, but cant seem te ever save enough money! something else just brakes!!

 

Thanks for the additional input 89ford73. I've just started to use kleen flo. Dosing it up alittle heavier the first tank. I'd like more input on the use of trannie fluid in the fuel...I think I've heard of that or something like that somewhere along the line. The Bank Sidewinder Turbo works nice. No problems with it since it was installed some 4 or 5 years ago. Noticeable power difference (can't quote the hp and ftlbs specs.) Would like to put a Bank Six Gun Tuner some exhaust and injector tricks but worry about stressing the motor. Wouldn't want to hurt it...gets exspense..money and time. Question..did your 89 (I take it) exihibit the same sort of symptoms?