'95 3500 Auto trans Flatbed/stakebody Dually: Never has had any power since I got it new, always quivered, especially when it is cold, even in the summer. ( I have had Diesel trucks 300,400 cummins for years) Unable to figure this one out. At a hot idle it will get grey smoke, if it idles for a little while. Always has a rat tat tat quiver on the start, then clears up. Did seem to be leaking & blowing oil a bit until I turned the Star wheel all the way forward, kicked the kitty out of the house, it definetly cleared it up a little & believe it or not the oil leaks stopped. (vent tube, etc) Seems to have more power, but still has that rat tat tat up until about 1500 rpms, smooths out and then will seem fine. If I was to floor board it for a few seconds at idle (cold or hot) it will grey smoke big time never any black exhaust. I don't know, I wish I could some it up in one sentence. I have a 94 chevy suburban, 350 w/a 4L80e trans 410 gears that will out pull my 1 ton cummins. This is unacceptable, just doesn't seem right. My diesel needs waking up. I think it might be fuel pump, pulling air, timing. Please help.
If anyone has any suggestions, will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks Billy

 

Sounds like your timing was never set right from the factory or has slipped

 

Dont know where you located but a trip to a good shop might be in need. As Infidel said, Timing is off, Bad fuel lines are common on 2nd gens, overflow valves going bad. Do a search here for some specific info.

 

Thanks for the info, I am on it. I will post the results.
Billy

 

I agree with timing. Dad's Ferd 7.3 IDI was a crop duster, until I bumped the timing up. It now has more power and better fuel mileage and no grey smoke.

Chris