I am finally about to get the truck started after 8 months of just sitting. I have filled the HPOP reservoir, I have the batteries on the charger and will be checking the fuel bowl for fuel flow before trying it. I also will have the charger with the start boost on it while cranking. Anything else you guys can think of that I am missing? I am starting to get excited about getting this thing running again.

 

How empty is your fuel tank? Maybe mix in some fresh fuel, and be prepared to drain some water since there's likely been condensation in the tank. Since water will settle to the bottom of the tank (where the fuel pick up happens to be), I'd plan on draining that a few times even if the light doesn't come on.

 

IIRC, there was about 1/2 tank I had thought about the fuel level, but not about the condensation. If I can get it to run long enough to get it over to the garage about 1/4 mile away I can clean the tank after I get the bed pulled off. Thank you.

 

We rebuild big diesel engines all the time. They rarely want to start easy when the fuel system is low or empty. Keep a can of starting fluid handy incase it doesn't want to start, you can drain the batteries real quick if it won't start.

 

Ether or WD-40?

 

I would not use ether in any diesel engine with glow plugs. If you have to, WD-40 would be safer.

 

That's what I was thinking, but I wasn't sure so I asked.

 

I know everyone is afraid to use either but it works. Just don't over do it, a little misting over the filter while cranking it over will get the job done.

 

A little ether wont really hurt it, I wouldnt spray half a can in it tho. It can also vapor lock it also. Speaking of condensation........just asking........the new fuel WILL grow algae(spelling??), for some reason the new fuel that is available at the pumps now days will grow it. I work on larger truck engines and Ive seen MANY trucks come in that havent had fuel filters changed for quite some time and its in the water seperator. Here's a clue, if the fuel smells kinda like a vinegar smell..........thats it forming! Good luck

 

Good info. Do you know of a good algaecide we can recommend for anyone who needs to park their truck for a while?

 

Very good point, I remember another member that went through this a while back. Here's the link.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/7...el-system.html