Hard start

[Garrison]

My 96' ram is having a little difficulty starting. The engine takes about 4-5 seconds to start (sometimes 5-6) instead of the old normal 2-3 seconds. I've replaced the fuel shut off solenoid back in late January and the shut off solenoid relays (with the surpentine belt) early this October. I've replaced the batteries early this year also. The only other alteration made was the fuel filter relocation kit installed a few years ago. I've also just had the cummins tuned up a few weeks ago,by cummins. The truck seems to run great,as usual. When the ignition is turned on,the solenoid shut off does ingage to allow fuel flow. Any ideas on why she cranks so long? Could the batteries be weak and not turning fast enough? I use wix fuel filters and it seems to get a little fuel residue on it after time. Is this normal? I also changed the rubber hose on the fuel return line at the fire wall,with no prevail. The truck is a 1996 4x4 2500 going on 150,000 miles. I hope it's not the fuel pump. Electrical maybe? Any ideas? It also sometimes cranks,kinda tries to start for a second,cranks,then fires up. Then, the truck seems to run strong as usual,no spits or sputters. Can be reached home at 330-549-0558. I'll call you back if you would rather talk over the phone. Garrson

 

[Joe G.]

Garrison,



Your idle may be a bit low. How does it start if you press the pedal a little?

 

[RHARVEY]

Joe,

This sounds a little like mine does. It will spin a little bit and then starts, but if I crack the throttle a little it starts right up.



Could this be from the idle sitting low. If I don't crack the throttle, it will spin a little and when it starts it won't puff any smoke. But otherwise if the throttle is open a little, I get a little whoof of smoke... . I also have clicked the AFC wheel 20 toward the motor. . maybe a little too much fuel on start



Rick

 

[Joe G.]

Rick,



I dunno why, but every so often you have to set the idle up a little on these things. The first symptom is that they get a little slow about starting. With an automatic trans they get so they stagger a bit at idle.

 

[Garrison]

Well, I have to admit I was a little sceptical with your responce to my problem. So I went out to my garage to research the service manual and here is what I found (and I quote) ; Low idle speed with automatic transmission in drive and air conditioning on,with engine at normal operating temperature should be 750-800 RPM. Hmmmm! My memory began to work. I remember one time my truck was in the shop a few years ago and the mechanic there told me he turned down the idle because it was to high. Ok I said,what do I know. Turns out that after a test on the good ol' cummins, she has an idle of only 600-700 RPM. Way to low by the specs. So I proceeded to adjust the settings back to factory standards. Wow,what a difference. The power plant diesel now starts on a dime! And what a relief I felt. I want to thank you for your prompt responce. And it makes perfect sense. This is a cumbustion engine,not spark ignition. It's good to know that there are sharp individuals, like yourself, willing to help out others at the black board scatching their heads. Proud to a member of the TDR and thanks again.