Hard starting at 15 degrees and below

[go4itej@gmail.com]

Hello, new here, hopefully someone can help. I use my 7.3 liter for snowmobiling and often am in places 0-15 degrees where I cannot plug in. I have had several glowplug relays go out and jump the relay with pliers to start. I had all 8 glow plugs replaced several months ago but am still experiencing really hard starting. It starts on a couple cylinders and blows black smoke and bucks for a minute or so until all cylinders kick in. I run Amsoil synthetic to help. The truck is a 2000 and has been great until the last year or so. I should also say I run additives to prevent gelling and lubricant. If I can plug in I do NOT experience the problem. The mechanic who replaced the glow plugs thinks it may be injectors but I disagree since the truck runs great after about 4-5 minute warm up. Any help is much appreciated. Thank you, EJ

[Herb]

Welcome to the Diesel Power Site EJ. I don't now much about the Ford PSD though maybe double up on the fuel additive and a healthy dose of Cetane Boost. for starters :)

[go4itej@gmail.com]

Thanks, the additives can't hurt. I heard they are really helpful with the low sulfur fuel too. I will try your suggestion.

[Herb]

It can't hurt. The new ULSD is not that great of fuel for our diesel trucks.

[Diesel Engineer]

EJ, there are many possibilities that could cause this. Have you checked to see if you need an Electronic Glow Plug Control Module Harness Repair Kit for 2000-2003 models? This ia a Ford Bulletin for a known problem:

7.3 trucks with the electronic GPCM may exhibit hard or no start when cold. This may be due to damaged GPCM harness connectors or terminals. Use repair kit 4C3Z-12B568-AA, which is intended for the 6.0 liter PowerStroke. TSB 04-22-8. Dave