When I first start diesel I prime for 15 seconds then hit start. Nothing but fuel pump running and starter clicking. Try a few times. Walk away. When I try again 10 min later it starts. New solenoid?
Delayed start.
- Thread starter charliec30
- Start date
A weakly engaging starter relay is almost always a result of insufficient voltage, bad connection, weak battery, undercurrent.
Routine maintenance 101 - when did you last remove, clean and reconnect all connections?
Also, why do you “prime for 15 seconds”? Should be unnecessary unless there is a fuel line leak.
This is a recommended procedure when starting an engine which has not been run for a few weeks. You only want to do it for about 5-10 sec. However, you're not priming the lines with fuel, you're wetting the rings and cylinder walls with oil. Seals much better (higher compression and less wear) than trying to start dry. You'll want to wait about one minute after running the starter motor without starting to allow the oil to spread and then start the engine (without the stop).
Having said all that, your problem is still most likely electrical as posted above.
But if he’s just getting a click he’s not turning the engine, so not “priming” in the sense you mean. “Priming” by just letting the the fuel pump run should be unnecessary as Don said. Holding the glow plugs on for that long might be necessary for some engines in some temperatures.
. He is not turning over the engine.Thanks all. Should have been clearer. I meant priming the glow plug. Holding the key to the right for 15secs. Used to start right up after that. Now I am doing it 8-10x and just click. then when I let it sit for a few min, while I pray, it starts. Might be the prayer, might not.
All connections good at batteries. Will check starter connections. Or button connection.
All connections good at batteries. Will check starter connections. Or button connection.
Yes, check AND CLEAN all the connections. I'd especially suspect a bad ground.
Look for voltage drop anywhere between the battery and the starter solenoid.. the switch itself and its connections, .. any intermediate connections/splices.. The starter itself and solenoid can be checked by using a remote start switch to bypass the switch and all its wiring..
some folks use a screwdriver, but if you've not done that, I wouldn't try without supervision. (this is where a gear head buddy can help )
Amazon.com: Innova 3630 Remote Starter Switch : Automotive
some folks use a screwdriver, but if you've not done that, I wouldn't try without supervision. (this is where a gear head buddy can help )
Amazon.com: Innova 3630 Remote Starter Switch : Automotive
Not sure what engine you have but if it is a Universal / Westerbeke you might want to look at this service bulletin.
Also, if it is a Universal and was made before 1989 or so , you might want to check that the wiring harness has been upgraded.
www.catalinadirect.com
Also, if it is a Universal and was made before 1989 or so , you might want to check that the wiring harness has been upgraded.
Universal Diesel Engine - Wiring Harness Upgrade - Marine How To
Engine Panel With Ammeter = Dangerous If your Universal engine panel looks like this, and has an ammeter, you are due for some critically important wiring upgrades. The factory wiring, with an ammeter in the panel, is
marinehowto.com
Engine Wiring Harness Upgrade for Universal Diesel Engines
Catalina Direct, publishers of the Catalina 22 and Catalina 25 Owner's Handbooks and the largest supplier of parts and Lewmar winches for Catalina Yachts in the country
www.catalinadirect.com
I think he means holding the glow plug button for 15 seconds?
If it's not crud on the connections, bad solenoid, worst case scenario take and have the starter rebuilt.
A shop here in Milwaukee gets about $100, and usually can either give you a direct replacement right away, or have it repaired by the end of the day.
But he’s only getting a click, no turning. A glow plug issue wouldn’t prevent the engine from turning.