How to start

[legg0]

What is proper throttle setting when starting diesel engine when cold? for example no throttle, half throttle, full throttle.

or does it not matter, whatever works?

I have 1994 Ford 7.3 non turbo
thanks

[rankroddin250]

if you have good glow plugs no throtle would be the propper way to start... I used to drive an old 7.3 idi with bad glow plugs and you had to pump the chit out of the throtle to get it to fire over when cold... I guess what ever that old beast like is what she takes.

[94OilBurner]

As long as there are no problems with the engine, it should start with no throttle. Once it drops below freezing I plug in the block heater overnight and that really helps and the engine cranks over much faster. If I forget to plug it in, I give just a little throttle, maybe 10% and hold it there while cranking.

Also, once it starts up I tap the throttle a little and it goes to a high idle. Once the idle drops down to normal on it's own, then I start working with it plowing and hauling.