'03 6.0 is developing a random no-start problem

[VeeDubTDI]

So this evening was the third time in a month or two that my truck has not started on the first try. Turn the key on, wait for the glow plug light to go out, turn the key to start, and it just cranks. I turn the key off, back on, and it starts right up like it normally does.

Seems to me to be some sort of electrical gremlin. I hear the fuel pump running (which was replaced by the previous owner 50,000 miles ago). I also noticed that it pumps out some white smoke (unburned diesel) during this no-start bit, so I believe it's injecting fuel.

Thoughts?

I'm hoping that it's not planning on leaving me hanging somewhere inconvenient... gotta scan it for codes tomorrow.

[GoFastPadre]

The white smoke sounds like a egr problem. It may be sticking just enough to cause the problem. I am sure a more qualified tech will be by soon though so here is a

[VeeDubTDI]

New EGR valve and it's unplugged. It pumps out the white smoke while cranking (unburned diesel) but not while running.

[Clay Henry]

white smoke is unburnt fuel at low temps. Black smoke is unburnt fuel at high temps.
Mine has always puffed some white smoke on startup...

[VeeDubTDI]

I'm beginning to wonder if the Edge tuner has a wiring issue with it. Sometimes the MAP signal is not present, sometimes it is, and sometimes it's through the roof. All the more reason to get an SCT!

[psd_va]

I have the same exact problem that has started for me to. In thinking something with glow plugs. My egr is deleted so don't think its anything with that.

[VeeDubTDI]

I hadn't considered the glow plugs, but if the GPCM isn't firing them on the first try, that would explain why it just cranks... something for me to look into. Thanks!

[psd_va]

Yea if you find anything let me know I'm still trying to figure it out. But I don't drive my truck much anymore so haven't been able to do any diag on it