2001 7.3, has a hard time starting when left over night. It doesnot have to be real cold out to do it. When it first starts up it lugs and sputters for a monent white smoke. Then it is fine, replaced the glow plug relay cause it was bad, if I plug the truck in it starts fine, any help would be great.

Also, can anyone tell me what the name of the cover plate yo have to take off to acess the HPOP& fuel filter. It got taken off and missplaced but I dont know what to call it to see iof I can Find a used one on Ebay.

Thanks,

 

I had the same problem with my 2000... just got it resolved.. and boy am i happy... I went all over the glow plug system and found nothing wrong... my truck wouldnt start if it was under 40 degrees farenheit.. I changed my oil to synthetic 5w40 and its a completely different truck... starts at 20 degrees with no problem what so ever... i couldnt and still cant believe the difference..

 

X2 Switching to a synthetic 5w40 will cure the "romps".

The cover plate you want to know the name of is called the engine cover. If you find one make sure it will fit your year model. They are not all the same. There are also nice looking aftermarket diamond plate and stainless steel covers. Here's an example. LINK Shop around, there are different designs at various diesel sites.

 

Ohm out the glow plugs, dont know exact readings but do a search for detailed instructions. There is great info here!!!

 

I believe spec. on glow plug resistance is 10 ohms. More than that, and it's bad.

 

Procedure for checking the GPs and Injector Solenoids.

 

Tested the glow plugs today, got one bad one on each side, all the others ohmed out at 1.5. Might as well replace the all when I open it up though. Thanks for the tips.