thanks. I remember what a cycling grid heater looked like but come to think of it I haven't seen that lately that I remember. I like the idea of a receptacle timer too. Gonna do that.

 

I doubt the block heater could effect the lift pump so you can likely rule out your lift pump then.

It was just and idea since my truck did the 'sputter-sputter' thing on cold mornings and it eventually turned out to be a lift pump. I don't recall if mine started any harder or easier with it plugged in.

You might want to look into checking your fuel pre-heater to make sure it's working (not sure if that's been suggested already or not). I've read that if it stops working, wax can build up and cause issues when starting cold.

--Sk

 

Turns out the grid heater is junk and took the wiring harness with it. I've started another thread on the subject specifically...... Dealer wants $500 to fix.

 

My trucks been doing the same lately. I crank it and it seems to start but stalls right away so after a few tries I hold the key alittle longer and it starts up rough idling for a few minutes.

I just thought of a easy way to test the grid heater, turn on your lights and see if they dim while the heater cycles. I'm gonna go try it myself.

 

Yup, just as I thought my lights were not dimming. No power or warmth at the heater grid. Troubleshot my relays and found them at fault. Replaced the relays and the truck now starts and runs like new.

 

If it doesn't do this when you plug it in then it sounds like a grid heater issue. Just because the WTS light is on or that the volts are dropping doesn't mean the grid heaters are working properly. Read this: http://dodgeram.org/tech/dsl/trouble...niford_htr.htm Also, check each battery separately for condition. A bad battery can be hard to detect but can cause a lot of problems.