E 350 hard start, hot or cold - loves the ether

[90vanguy]

Hey, y'all. E 350,1990, totally hooked on starter fluid. Can't make her go, hot or cold, without a shot.

Is there a fix? What do I replace? Just changed out the glow plug controller, reliable clicks now...but I can't start it without a blast from the can!

I have no diagnostic tools available...what is it that makes this beast fire?

New here, and guidance would be welcome.

Thanks for all the informative posts - I've been lurking a while, that's how I got the little piggy running!!!!

[elibenson]

Using ether a lot might have damaged your valves/seats or piston rings. I know for a fact that ether will crack your glow plugs, making them inoperative. If you have replaced your glow plugs and still won't go, then do a compression check. I have an IDI that has good glow plugs and good controller that was severely mistreated before I got it. Most of the time it will start, but the compression is a little flaky, and has a hard time starting, but will run fine (or good enough) once it is actually running. I don't use ether on it though, I use gasoline on a piece of cloth to get it started.