Tinman

tinman · #1 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006, 06:36 PM

Recently purchased a used ambulance for a work vehicle. 1994 Ford E350 Van 7.3 Diesel, Great work truck. I am a HVAC contractor. Truck ran great until it got cold. Now I have not been able to start it for three days. That is what brings me here. Yesterday I replaced the batteries. The block heater is not working, but I have a new one on the way. Replaced the fuel filter but still not starting. Is there a special procedure you need to go through after replacing the fuel filter. I have no clue why that schrader valve is on the top of the fuel filter. I would also like to know where the location of the glow plug relay is on that engine. I really like the truck and the diesel engine unfortunetly I do not know anything about them. But I am learning quickly.
Thanks !!

**stump0331** · #2 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006, 06:41 PM

wish i could help buddy, but WELCOME anyway

**pipelayerjdh** · #3 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006, 06:47 PM

The glow plug controler should be on top of the engine between the valve covers. I have never worked on a van, but I know some things are different than on the f-series, like the fuel filter location. The relay looks like a starter solonoid relay. If you changed the fuel filter, did you fill it with fuel before installing it? The schrader valve should be pressed in to release air trapped in the fuel system while cranking the engine. you will need some one to help you. If you get air into the injector lines you may need to crack each injector line to bleed the air out, again while cranking. Just losten the nut on the injector line while cranking and tighten when fuel with no air is pumped out. Do not stop cranking the engine with an injector line lose, because it will pull more air into the line.

Welcome to the forum!!!

**Big Tone** · #4 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006, 06:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tinman

Recently purchased a used ambulance for a work vehicle. 1994 Ford E350 Van 7.3 Diesel, Great work truck. I am a HVAC contractor. Truck ran great until it got cold. Now I have not been able to start it for three days. That is what brings me here. Yesterday I replaced the batteries. The block heater is not working, but I have a new one on the way. Replaced the fuel filter but still not starting. Is there a special procedure you need to go through after replacing the fuel filter. I have no clue why that schrader valve is on the top of the fuel filter. I would also like to know where the location of the glow plug relay is on that engine. I really like the truck and the diesel engine unfortunetly I do not know anything about them. But I am learning quickly.
Thanks !!

Welcome to powerstroke.org
If its a powerstroke valve on fuel filter is water separator open it till fuel stops running out.
if your engine block heater doesnt work try turning on key and let glow plugs cycle for a full minute after wait to start light goes out, crank it for ten seconds then let it set for a minute, then start over, but let glow plugs cycle twice.

**pipelayerjdh** · #5 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006, 06:57 PM

I assumed it was not a powerstroke, I may have been too hasty. If it is a powerstroke, my previous post does not apply. If it is a 7.3 IDI it will help.