Cold Start

[PoPo8]

Hello All,

I just wanted to get some opinions on my batteries. I have been having cold start issues with my 2001 7.3. I cycle the glow plugs a couple of times, but with it being cold 28-36 degrees the truck does not start. I am able to crank the truck two or three times and then it is dead and I have to jump start the truck.

I wanted to know what was the normal cranking time or how many cranking cycles I can expect from my batteries. I have a feeling that my batteries probably need to be replaced. But let me know your opinions.

I don't have any problems if the truck is plug in for eight hours or so and I have check the GPR and it is getting power when the key is turned. So it could also be the glow plugs themselve maybe.

Thanks!!

[K9Kev]

Same here....crappy N. Texas weather has been kickin my early moring starting routine to around 20 minutes....

Be nice to see what everyone says here.

[daveyburt]

i just got an 01 7.3 and this is my first experience in cold weather with it. It usually turns over about 5 times then fires.

Over the past couple days (being 10-20 deg F and not plugged in) I've had a harder time starting it. I've noticed that after turning over more than 5 times, it turns slower and the bat. gauge drops a bit. On the next crank cycle, volts are back to normal for the first 5 or so turns over, then it drops again. Knowing it takes a certain amount of voltage to 'let' it start, I try not to turn it over much more than 5 or 6 times and concentrate more on heating the glow system.

My batteries are new and even though it slows down if I keep the key turned after the 5-6 times, the next time i try, it spins fast again for the first 5-6 cranks. I did this for about 10 min the other day and even though I thought I was killing the batteries, they held up fine and I got 'er started.

I think next time I'll give it two-three FULL glow cycles (leaving the key on for the full 2 min each time) before I try to crank it.

So, yes, it sounds as though you may need batteries. Also, be sure your running fuel additive and maybe a lighter weight crankcase oil for the cold months. I chose the rotella 5-40 syn for the New England winter. -so far, it's never failed to start (knock on wood)

Hope that helps.

[greasyF250]

You need to check each glow plug for operation. My mercedes diesels will be hard starting if 1 or 2 glow plugs are not working . 8 working glow plugs will fire up a 7.3l with only a few short cranks with winter diesel and an anti- gel additive.

[jbeasts10]

If the batteries are crapping out that fast,I would think they are shot.I havent plugged mine in at all this year..lowest temp yet was 18* and it started right up.I put 2 new batteries in a couple of months ago(850CCA) and it made all the diff in the world.

[Deeno]

Sounds like the batteries to me too. Starter could be dragging too. Dad had to put a new starter on his 99psd last year along with new batteries. Sounds like it is going to sling the flywheel out of her now where it cranks so fast

[NCHornet]

Your batteries are dead, replace both of them, I just had to do this myself today!!! Then you need to check your GP's, follow the tech article in the Maintenance section. A properly working GP system should start the truck unassisted to 20 below.

NCH