Archived 04.5 won't run

[CumminSense]

I have the same problem as DBabbitt (a few posts below) -- truck started yesterday morning, died at the end of the driveway. Started again a couple times, but only ran a few seconds. was only 20 degrees F overnight. I had exactly the same symptoms as DBabbitt. Changed fuel filter, no help. Then I filled the fuel filter cup (this was mid-day yesterday, had warmed to about 35 degrees) to the brim with fuel, tightened down the filter, and it started great -- but only ran about 1 minute. BTW, after changing the filter, and trying to start it several times, the filter cup was empty and the filter was still dry awhen I opened it up again.



Any help appreciated. I doubt gel, it's too warm. About 30 F this morning, I'm off to try a couple other things (at the end of my street). DC 24-hour assistance tow never called or showed up last night.

 

[DCaswell]

Pretty sure it is lift pump, same thing happened to me & that is what it was

 

[CumminSense]

Thanks, DCaswell. Finally got tow, dealership (decent) is supposed to look at it this afternoon. I will try to remember to come back on and reply as to the final solution. If it is lift pump, pretty disappointing at 21K. Otherwise love the truck, best vehicle I've ever owned. Hated seeing my baby on the back of a Chevy rollback.....

 

[RAJohnson]

Sounds like gelling to me, But I will be watching to see what it actually is.

 

[CumminSense]

Got truck back last night. Dealer said just frozen up (no details), ran fine once warmed up in the shop, and ran fine on the road, too. I put a double dose of Power Service additive into her last night, ran fine home. Dealer said they did not check fuel pressure, so I still wonder... .



Not to be stranded again, I will now be:



1) adding additive, at least during winter, Power Service for now just because it's available at AutoZone, may research for other/better additives



2) checking the nipple on the top of the tank and adding a piece of fuel line (I have the long bed so may have the open nipple in the deppression / gets water into tank -- widely discussed)



3) installing fuel pressure gauge as soon as it arrives from Geno's



4) considering carrying spare lift pump, or bypassing the stock one with a better unit near tank, and keep stock installed as a backup (quick changeover if needed)



Thanks for help and great info on TDR.



-- Steve

 

[DDiMarco]

I have used Howes diesel additive for over a year in my CTD and Kubota and have never had a fuel/start problem down to sub-zero temps here in Connecticut, even without block heater use. I use 1/4 quart per tankful (I just eyeball the bottle in fourths) and I have never had a water or starting problem. You might also check your fuel tank vent; its probably wide open to atmospheric pressure with no filtration of any kind. Splash around in some NE slush for a couple of days and you can imagine what is going into your fuel tank.

 

[trainhorndodge]

I had same problem but it was my lift pump. Dealer wanted to sell me a joke of an upgrade by installing new pump in tank. Went with the FASS 150 and it runs great now, better then it did when I bought it new.