My Volvo MD11c behaves just like rad88's engine although I've never had to use starting fluid. It takes a lot of cranking when cold before any firing and then needs continued cranking while it sputters for 30 seconds.
Some of this discussion leaves me puzzled.
Ross, what is a "rack?" Your instructions remind me of the snipe hunting we did as a kid. Are they for real? Is it a need common to all Volvos? What model is yours?
Paul, what do you mean by using all the battery power? How can I use less than all of it? Somewhere I read that the "throttle" on a diesel is actually a governor. That would mean that the fuel supply is wide open whenever the engine is not turning at "throttle" requested rpm. Presumably the battery doesn't turn the engine at idle speed so even at idle throttle there should be maximum fuel supply?
Sand Sailor, if an engine doesn't start in just a few revolutions are we causing any damage by continuing? Judging by the black crud that spits out the exhaust for a minute or so I suspect it's not good for the environment but will it speed the demise of my engine? What does the cold start button do? It locks down when pushed and pops up when the throttle is advanced. It seems to shorten the start process.
Any suggestions for a good source of info on how diesels work?
Geoff
Rad,I have a Yanmar YSM12. It has gotten very hard to start without the use of a touch of starting fluid. Could the cetane level of the fuel be the reason? I hope it is not the rings.
Rad,
Please don't use ether (starting fluid) in a diesel it can do bad things. WD-40 works well and is safer for starting a diesel.
Also if you are cranking it that much you should do so with the seacock closed so you don't fill the exhaust system with water then hydrolock your engine. Once it starts quicky open the seacock. I know a number of boaters who have done this after working on fuel systems etc. and sucked water into the cylinders. It does not compress..
Does your engine have glow plugs or a pre-heat system? If it does check that circuit to make sure it is working and pre heat for 20-30 seconds then fire her up.
Most diesel engine professionals and manufacturers disagree with the use of starting fluid in small diesels.a small shot of starter fluid won't harm an engine. all its really doing is getting a quicker ignition which will help to warm the cly up to ignite the diesel fuel better.
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