6.5 Cold Starting Issues?

[wyo6.5]

I am trying to figure out why my truck has such a hard time starting in the cold. I have to keep it outdoors in the elements and always plugged in. It got down to -17 the other night and when I went to start my truck the next morning it would turn over but not start. At first I thought it was just my batteries because my voltage meter in my dash was reading pretty low. I tried to jump it but it still wouldn't start. It seemed like it wanted to start but it just wouldn't. I finally ended up having to pull start it. I went away for the weekend and came back tonight and when I tried to start my pickup, it did the same thing. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

[TAZZ9963]

First if it wouldn't turn over I would look at the starting or charging system. Glow plugs don't have anything to do with the motor turning over. Is your truck charging? Check the condition of your batteries, they don't last forever. Could be a weak starter. The instant heat glow plugs are a must in my book.

[black smoker]

i just replaced the stater in my truck, it was acting similar to yours and now it starts 100% better, but first you need to take it to an auto parts place (auto-zone ) and most will test your system for free and tell yo what is wrong

[wtesta]

if you are having trouble starting the engine if you have a engine coolent heater (block heater) plug the truck in so it will start because diesels can be a dog to get started in the cold if not plugged in overnight.


hope this works!!!

[JD_countryboy]

Being it was that cold out, one of your batteries coulda froze up and broke apart internaly. 1 good batt will turn these engines over, but you need two batts to keep enough voltage and current to start them. I second the takin it to an auto parts place and have the starting, charging system checked out andget your batts load tested. Most places will do it for free. Gotta load test each batt, just cause the batt may show good voltage it may not have the cureent carrying capability anymore. Good luck