Cold start problem fixed

[DR.billZ]

Sorry if this is a repeated thread but thought I'd share so others may fix the problem.

Symptoms:
Bad starting in cold weather WITH good batteries(actually brand new batteries).
Will start after repeated cycling thru 'glow plug warm up'........... eventually. This happens mostly below 30F. Will start fine after the engine is warm and if plugged in.

Fix: Replace the glow plug module (note: pick ups may have a 'glow plug relay', but Excursions and California pickups have a 'glow plug module'..... at least it is this way with th 7.3L)


It threw a code fault(even though some will say it doesn't). It will state glow plug module and may also say a glow plug or few are bad. Once the module was replaced the check engine light went out after a few cycles of starting.

Hope this helps anyone trying to figure out a cold start problem (and helps with the terminology).
Feel free to correct anything I may have mis-stated.

Again sorry if this has been beat to death here.

[nowheeler]

Welcome,
I too have the same problem with my GPCM I have been putting of replacing it until i have the$$$. Glad to hear it worked. The main reason I am posting is to see if those Air bags you have in the rear did anything for the standard loud clunk you may or may not have experienced. Mine does it with a load or more than 1/2 tank of fuel. I know you can buy the super duty springs but My ex is lifted and am looking for a fix.

Thanks,

-Evan

[DR.billZ]

The air bags help a lot. I pull a 30 foot toyhauler with it and no bottoming out at all. Without them it was awful!

FYI. I got that GPCM for $125.00. Just do a google search or I can provide a link to it.

[Jboymx]

Great info! How many miles did you have when your problem started? Also did you have any other symptoms like rough running start-up til warm, smokin', or poor performance.

Thanks!!

[DR.billZ]

Started at about 150,000 miles.
No other symptoms.
Ran fine once it started. Started fine after that.
Only after completely cooled down would it be hard to start.

[proteegolf]

I ordered a new one. I hope to get it this Friday. Mine won't start cold unless it is plugged in for 2 hours or so. One time I banged on the GPCM with a hammer and she started cold. Check engine light is on. Hope the GPCM is the cure

[boostedh22a]

I'm in the same boat, I'm thinking of trying a GPCM first. This is what the dealer tried to sell me when I took it in for cold start and check engine light issues.

7.3 PSD, Glow Plugs, Module, Harness, VC gasket,etc.

[golfmedik]

Had to replace my GPCM last week at 163k. Threw a code, no starting issues. Was warmer here in GA at the time. Took less than 15 minutes to change. All is good now.

[Gjtaylor5]

I am having the exact same problem. Just bought my 2001 f250 SD 7.3L 2WD Crew Cab a couple weeks ago. Had a couple starting probs, but nothing major. Last week found both batteries to be dead so I replaced them both. Wham! Started no problem. I let the truck sit for about 4 days and went to start it and just kept turning over but not firing. My service engine soon is throwing up GP #2,4,6, & 8 are bad. I first replaced the glow plugs, gasket, and harness but codes still came up. I have a GPCM on order and should get it in the next couple of days. Sure hope this solves my issue. It was over 50 degrees when not starting.......

[proteegolf]

Sounds like you need a GPCM. To have that many glow plugs go bad at once is almost impossible. Also, check the wiring plugs at the valve covers. Sometimes they burn out.

From what I have read, many of us are having wiring issues also. Mine is throwing a code now that the EOT sensor high side wiring is bad. Just as an FYI, the wiring harnesses are made in Mexico. THE GPCM's are made in Spain. I have little confidence unless it is made in Germany, US, Canada or Japan. Years ago Benz used a wiring harness made in Pakistan or Israel in their W140 Chassis. THey all went bad.