Hey guys,
My 12-valve has been starting a bit hard lately. In 10-30* weather it takes a few minutes to get her running. It takes about two cycles of the grid heaters and a little throttle application. Thats normal right?? My heads getting spun around now so I need outside input. What I just described is with the truck unplugged.
But when I have it plugged in things get weird. I think my block heater is NOT working. I tested that theory today, by leaving it plugged in for a solid 20 hours and starting her in 30* weather. It took 3 cycles of the grid heaters, a good bit of cranking, and some throttle to get the Cummins running. This same thing has happened before when I plugged the truck in. Weird ehh?? It’s like the block heater being plugged in is making it start worse. I know this is completely contradictory of the block heaters purpose and function. What do you guys think?? Have you heard anything like this before or am I just insane? I haven’t felt the block after the block heater has been plugged in for a while yet. I might try that and see if it’s warm. Where exactly is the block heater element located on the engine??
The good news, whether or not the truck has been plugged in, after it starts it runs great!! Smooth and with almost no haze while its warming up (just the normal amount for a cold diesel).
So how can I test the block heater besides slapping my hand on the block??
Other things im thinking could be an issue:
Grid heaters? The voltmeter drops when the grids are on and fluctuates normally. I need to figure out how to use the multimeter I have and test them.
Batteries? Could the batteries be not supplying sufficient power? They're the ones the PO put in. I'll check there cold cranking amps.
Starter? The engine seems to be turning over fairly quickly (I know horrible description). I will pay attention to that aspect the next time I start her cold.
Fuel issue? The OFV should be good, it was taken out inspected and cleaned not to long ago. I also use Power Services diesel supplement (white bottle- recommended amount) in each tank. Should I press the lift pump primer button a few times before I try to start her next time to see if it makes a difference??
God winter makes life a pain……
So what do you guys think??
Thanks in advance:thumbsup::thumbsup: Appreciate any help!
-Garrett
My 12-valve has been starting a bit hard lately. In 10-30* weather it takes a few minutes to get her running. It takes about two cycles of the grid heaters and a little throttle application. Thats normal right?? My heads getting spun around now so I need outside input. What I just described is with the truck unplugged.
But when I have it plugged in things get weird. I think my block heater is NOT working. I tested that theory today, by leaving it plugged in for a solid 20 hours and starting her in 30* weather. It took 3 cycles of the grid heaters, a good bit of cranking, and some throttle to get the Cummins running. This same thing has happened before when I plugged the truck in. Weird ehh?? It’s like the block heater being plugged in is making it start worse. I know this is completely contradictory of the block heaters purpose and function. What do you guys think?? Have you heard anything like this before or am I just insane? I haven’t felt the block after the block heater has been plugged in for a while yet. I might try that and see if it’s warm. Where exactly is the block heater element located on the engine??
The good news, whether or not the truck has been plugged in, after it starts it runs great!! Smooth and with almost no haze while its warming up (just the normal amount for a cold diesel).
So how can I test the block heater besides slapping my hand on the block??
Other things im thinking could be an issue:
Grid heaters? The voltmeter drops when the grids are on and fluctuates normally. I need to figure out how to use the multimeter I have and test them.
Batteries? Could the batteries be not supplying sufficient power? They're the ones the PO put in. I'll check there cold cranking amps.
Starter? The engine seems to be turning over fairly quickly (I know horrible description). I will pay attention to that aspect the next time I start her cold.
Fuel issue? The OFV should be good, it was taken out inspected and cleaned not to long ago. I also use Power Services diesel supplement (white bottle- recommended amount) in each tank. Should I press the lift pump primer button a few times before I try to start her next time to see if it makes a difference??
God winter makes life a pain……
So what do you guys think??
Thanks in advance:thumbsup::thumbsup: Appreciate any help!
-Garrett