Hard starting 002a
Kevin,
Appreciate the response:
1. Prior to starting, you are holding the preheat switch for 45 seconds, right? I'll assume your response is yes, since you stated the starting problem also occurs when the engine is hot.
Yes, I have preheated for up to one minute. Also, have verified that the heaters and glow plugs are being powered and are actually heating.
2. Did you verify that the check valve is installed between the secondary filter & the IP? Even if it is in place, you should take it off and clean/test it for proper function without any leakage. If it leaks past, then replace the valve.
This unit came without the check valve. To test to see if the fuel is bleeding back, I pinched the line with a refrigeration line clamp at hot shutdown and then tried to restart immediately. No go-would not start. Plan to get into Advance Auto for a #CV8000 check valve when I can.
3. Have you cracked the fuel line fittings on the injectors and verified good fuel flow while cranking?
Yep, bled until I have plenty of fuel. This ip came on the unit. Have taken it apart and replaced the plunger guide as well as cleaned/checked everything inside. Kind of wondering if it is worn enough so it is not making high enough pressure to pop the reset injectors on start-up cranking. Before the injectors were cleaned/reset, it would start ok, but ran crappy. Bought a new ip from Gimpyrobb, but ended up putting it on another unit. May have to buy another ip-just want to see if it is actually needed.
4. If everything checks out & Jerry setup your injectors & the IP is known good & you are getting good fuel flow, then that leaves low compression. (I think it's safe to say the engine is getting air.) I suggest that you do a compression test to isolate the problem. There's a fellow on this site who can machine an adapter for this purpose. I believe Jerry may have one if you live close to him.
I have a diesel compression test kit, just need to have an adapter made. I am a couple of hours from Jerry. There is a local machine shop I may contact to have one made. Would be nice to have one on hand. I pulled the head to check the head gasket, cylinder, and valves. Looks good-cylinder still has machining cross hatching. There are 163 hours showing on meter. Head gasket was ok. Valves had been adjusted and checked again (.007 exhaust and .010 intake).
5. An afterthought--did you check valve adjustment? Too little lash will open the valves too far and too long and could lower compression also.
I have one operating machine for backup. It is going to take some time to iron out problems as there are electrical issues. Just have to get it running first....
Thanks,
David