BRRR, 8 Below Won't Start
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New User
Joined: May 2004
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BRRR, 8 Below Won't Start
We haven't been able to get the 350 Diesel started for days. It is 8 below this morning. Yes, it has been plugged in. Is there something we could put in the fuel tank, such as an additive (what about rubbing alcohol?). A friend told us it wasn't getting any fuel. We can hear the fuel pump, but it just won't start. Any ideas????
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,276
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From: NE Tennessee
If the fuel is already gel in the fuel lines I'm not sure what ya can do besides get the truck warm. Maybe a space heater but at those temps think a heated garage is best bet. Maybe a big blower heater???
No clue on the alchol and diesel fuel.
No clue on the alchol and diesel fuel.
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 803
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From: Bobcaygeon Ont.
Try removing the fuel filter cover. See if there is any fuel in the bowl. If not try filling it with diesel reinstall the cap and try starting it again. A good quality anti gel adative should work its way through the lines. Giver a good dose and try it again in the morning!! Let us know hoe you make out! P.S Check your batteries. Put them on charge for awhile. Low battery voltage will roll it over no probs. but the ecm won't fire the injectors under 11 volts i think it is!
Last edited by lancer; Jan 18, 2005 at 09:25 AM.
Elder User
Joined: Sep 2003
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Peterson have you looked in the fuel bowl and made sure the fuel is not gelled? If not then you need to check the maxi fuses under the hood esp #22 for the fuel heater. If it's blown then unplug the fuel heater, replace fuse and fire it up.
If the fuel has gelled then you need to get it warmed up then add some Deisel Kleen white bottle or Stanadyne DO NOT PUT ALCOHOL in it.
John
If the fuel has gelled then you need to get it warmed up then add some Deisel Kleen white bottle or Stanadyne DO NOT PUT ALCOHOL in it.
John
Posting Guru
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 2,417
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From: Braham MN
No fuel in the bowl is a good indication that the fuel is gelled in the lines. Get some Diesel 911. they sell it at truck stops, it is an emergency antigel additive for semi's. Fill the bowl back up with good fuel, get a new filter, and add the addative, that should get you going.
What year is the truck, i am guessing since you said you can hear the pump it is a 99 or new. I have no idea where the pump relay is, but I am thinking it is good if you said you can hear the pump.
Diesel Rod
What year is the truck, i am guessing since you said you can hear the pump it is a 99 or new. I have no idea where the pump relay is, but I am thinking it is good if you said you can hear the pump.
Diesel Rod
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Elder User
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 803
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From: Bobcaygeon Ont.
I agree with 444dieselrod. You also didn't mention if you checked the fuses under the hood. This was also a good suggestion. This happened to a buddies 99 3 weeks ago and his fuel heater was shorted. Blew the fuse and a no start situation. I would check those fuses if i were you. You did say the fuel pump was working earlier so i wouldn't worry about it. It is located on the frame under the truck around the driver door area. Lay under the and turn the key to the on position and see if it runs. That way you know for sure. Put the amergancy brake on for safety!! P.S I will look in my manual to see if i can find the relay for you.
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Elder User
Joined: Jan 2004
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From: Bobcaygeon Ont.
You could try heating the lines with a hairdrier. It would probably ungel them if you get them warm enough. Try heating the pump good. It may suck the fuel through. Add some adative first!! That it will draw it through the lines. Keep us posted! DO NOT USE A PROPANE TORCH!! This is very dangerous!!
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