7.3 cranking question
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 9,293
Likes: 10
From: Parker, CO
Depends on temps, condition of glow plugs, fuel (#2 or winter blended), fuel filter, additives, and luck.
Cold engine cranking - my version:
In colder temps, I won't start my truck right after the glow plug light goes out. I'll wait about 30 seconds for cooler temps (below say 50 degrees) before cranking. If temps are below freezing I'll let it cycle for about 2 minutes, turn the key off, then cycle again for another 30 seconds, sometimes less depending on my mood. My truck always fires up immediately (less than 3 seconds), no matter what.
The type of fuel in the winter can sometimes cause a harder start since #1 diesel packs less of a punch. Some people who use additives in their fuel have better luck starting on cold mornings. Also clogged or old and dirty fuel filter or bad glow plugs will keep your engine from starting easily.
Cold engine cranking - my version:
In colder temps, I won't start my truck right after the glow plug light goes out. I'll wait about 30 seconds for cooler temps (below say 50 degrees) before cranking. If temps are below freezing I'll let it cycle for about 2 minutes, turn the key off, then cycle again for another 30 seconds, sometimes less depending on my mood. My truck always fires up immediately (less than 3 seconds), no matter what.
The type of fuel in the winter can sometimes cause a harder start since #1 diesel packs less of a punch. Some people who use additives in their fuel have better luck starting on cold mornings. Also clogged or old and dirty fuel filter or bad glow plugs will keep your engine from starting easily.
