Alrighty, so I got this truck a week ago today. Was great all last weekend until monday morning. Truck would crank, but no start. Gen light came on. It was colder in the morning than the previous mornings. I got my wife to jump the truck off, and it started after two tries. Started and stopped fine the rest of the day.

I go to Autozone afterwork, and have them do a test on the alternator and batteries. Batteries check out, alternator is not looking so hot. Its still okay, but not as good as it could. I opt to replace it.

Fast forward to today, it started fine yesterday morning. I drove 4 hours (total) out to Breckenridge and back. No problems the whole way.

But this morning, same problem. Cranks, no start. Gen light didn't come on until the 4th time cranking. I'm going at lunch to try to jump it with a buddy from work. My guess is it'll start.

What could be the problem?! I can't keep getting rides from friends because I work out of the way for people....and I have to drive to Dallas (I love in Fort Worth) everyday next week! Help! What could I be missing?

 

I'm not really understanding the problem. If it's cranking, you can rule out the batteries and charging system as a problem, unless it's cranking really slowly. Also, the GEN light isn't a reliable indicator of anything unless the engine is running. Once it's running, test the alternator's output with a voltmeter and, ideally, an ammeter.

 

see if the fuel cut off solenoid is pulling up if not pull it up by hand truck should start then replace the relay ive had this problem several times. And good luck driving with the crazy people in dallas

 

Need more info to help , if you just got this truck , then how familiar are you with these trucks & diesels in general ?
What RPMs is the engine turning over to start ?
Is the speed of the starter turning the engine over slowing down , if so how soon , revolutions / sec.s ?

 

The RPMS the truck attempts to start at normal RPMS. It does not start slow. I tested the alternator before I replaced it, and it was showing less than normal output.

I jump started the truck over lunch, so I'll probably have to wait until the morning to try the fuel cut off solenoid.

I went to school for two years at a local college for Automotive Technology, so I know my well around vehicles. As far as diesels are concerned, I know a decent amount them. Most of my knowledge come through here, and through my father-in-law's 04 dodge cummins.

The tach does not show what RPMS its turning at. The starters speed does not move slower in speed. It stays steady.

 

2 things you have to have for a diesel to run, enough compression and fuel injected at the proper time, if you have that, then it will run

 

So then I think it must be the fuel cut-off solenoid, I'll check its fuse when I get home. I'll let yall know.

 

Been slammed at work, sorry for not getting back with everyone.

I changed the fuel filter, bled the system, changed the oil and filter. Thus far, I haven't had a problem. My wife leaves before me during the morning, so I'm having her go out and make sure it starts before I leave.

Could it be that I just needed to change the fuel filter and bleed the system?

 

Yes and no.
If the fuel is draining back in the system, that would cause a hard start, long cranking situation.
If it does it again, use the manual pump plunger on the fuel pump, and it should fire right off. Then start inspecting the fuel lines from the back of the motor forward for leaks, chances are, one of the hoses is cracked and allowing the fuel to leak back into the tank, adding air into the system.