'03 starting problem

[BLambert]

Hi folks. I have a starting issue with my truck and I need some advice. Before you say it, I know the truck needs injectors. It has all the symptoms like rougher idle, mileage dropoff, etc, but it's not a real good time to spend the money right now, so here goes. It's an '03 with 335,000 miles (fairly light duty) and no performance mods. The truck starts just fine when the weather is cool/cold (40 or less) IF I DON'T PLUG IT IN. If it's plugged in, no go. Spins great, but will not "catch". Unplugged, no problem. Of course it spins slower for the obvious reasons, but it starts perfectly. Seems kinda backwards to me, but that's the way it is. Warmer than 45 or so and it's a total crapshoot and the warmer it is, the less likely it is to go. Problem first showed up last fall when a fellow put in a coolant pump and a fan hub bearing. When he went to restart the truck, he absentmindedly stepped on the pedal while cranking and got no start. First time ever. Since that time it's been subject to failure always based on temperature. Cool or cold, go. Warmer, no go.
Like I said, I know it is desperate for injectors, but can anybody else come up with a "contributor" that might be adding to the injector issue that might get me over this hump without new injectors. I put in a new FCA because I'd noticed a lope at low speeds. No change on the start problem, but now I have a big lope at about 1100 rpm. Got ahold of a bad FCA I'd guess, but made no difference on the real problem.
Long story short, worn out injectors, cold-start, warm-no start. Who is a good source for new injectors as a last resort?
Sorry for the wordy post. An indication of a disorganized mind probably.


Byron

 

[JJPage]

There is tons of reading on this subject, just do a search and put on your reading glasses...

Then again, you may just try re-torquing your injector crossover tubes to 42 ft lbs, it may buy you some added time, but with that mileage new injectors are in focus in the crystal ball. Seriously, do the re-torque and move on from there if it does not improve. Several threads on the procedure, here is a link to injector install with photos, it will help you to identify the cross tubes and locknuts. https://www.turbodieselregister.com...all-procedure-with-photos&highlight=injectors

 

[cerberusiam]

TC Diesel or DAP both have new inectors. A Cummins certified shop near you should have remans and new both. Lots of chopices, lots of $$$.

 

[BLambert]

Thanks to you both for the advice. The high pressure injector supply lines are a likely place to look and a little pressure loss there combined with already slobbering (as opposed to spraying) injectors and fuel viscosity that is a bit runnier due to temperature increases could keep the rail pressure from reaching the lower threshold. Low pressure, no injection orders from the ECM is surely a possibility. Still, whatever else it is, it is STILL the injectors. $$$ Sorry for the slow response. I had some trouble getting my first two attempts to post up. DUH!