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I have had my 05 for 2 weeks. It has 44k miles. This is my first diesel, so my background is with gassers.
I am not sure if I have a hard starting condition or not. I have to crank if for about 3-5 seconds before it starts. It seems like it is taking a while to build HP to fire the injectors. It is not cranking over slow or anything like that. I also wait until the glow plug light goes off and the temp has been 70+ since I got it. It has been doing this since I got it and do not know if this is normal or not. I have no smoke and it runs great after it starts.
I changed the oil last weekend with 5-40 Valvoline Extreme Blue synthetic and also changed the fuel filters with no change to the way it starts.
The OASIS did not show the STC fitting being replaced yet, so I am wondering if I have a valid concern or not.
It may not be an issue. I do not think 3-5 seconds is bad. Mine starts a little quicker (in 2-3 seconds), but I don't think Ford feels that 3-5 seconds is unacceptable. If I were you, I would load check the batteries just to eliminate that possibility.
I guess it could be a HPO issue developing. However, many times this will begin to happen when hot and not as bad when cold. Does it happen with a hot and a cold engine?
Another possibility may be a restricted intake or exhaust.
I understand the "concern" on the STC fitting. If I understand the dates correctly (for the Ford "fixes"), I missed having the STC bracket installed on my 2006 by a few months. I approached my dealership about doing the STC replacement when they are in a slow time at the shop. They said they would do it at a discount, but it would still be fairly expensive. I just do not want to have to have it done at a shop that I do not know anything about (ie on a long trip). Decisions - decisions!
Bottom line .... your own advice is wise - quit worrying and enjoy!