Hi,

I have a 300SD Turbo Diesel that is having a REALLY hard time starting in the morning. Other then that it's not too bad - pretty much starts right up and it drives fine. I live in Southern California so it only goes down to the mid to upper 40's at the coldest at night. It has been a bit damp in the mornings. Any suggestions or help would be greatly appreciative.

Thanks!!!

Patrick

Go to dieselgiant.com and follow his glow plug testing tutorial. It's almost certain you have a glowplug problem.

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1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13

You can also try cycling the glow plugs two or three times before cranking it over, and possibly get a better start. I find that it definitly works for me here in Oregon. Three times minimum for me when it gets below 40.

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"Those that turn their guns into plows shall serve and tarry for those who do not." Thomas Jefferson

Something's not right if you have to cycle the glowplugs numerous times at temperatures below 40 degrees. 617's in moderately good condition should fire off easily at 25 degrees with one glow if the glow system is working correctly. I've started my 85 TD at 35 below zero F with two glows and I don't consider it to be in top notch condition.

__________________
1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13

Thanks - I appreciate the help - I'll go order some glow plugs tomorrow and try that out. I just got the car and am not familiar with diesels very much. The light comes on - but the car still has a hard time starting.

Patrick

P.S. Ensure that you obtain Bosch Glow Plugs as there have been many reports here of the disappointment of the Autolites.

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Sam

84 300SD 350K+ miles ( Blue Belle )

Are you aware that the glow plugs continue to glow for a while after the light goes off? Are you waiting longer than the light before starting? The light is really just a minimum suggestion on how long to let it glow before trying to start. As the temps drop, that minimum suggestion might not be long enough for a smooth start.

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'83 300DTurbo http://badges.fuelly.com/images/smallsig-us/318559.png

Broadband: more lies faster.