Starting the 5411

[Ed J]

I'm a new owner of an 83 C30, with the Universal M15 (11HP) diesel. I have the 5411 manual which, in the starting instructions, directs having the throttle open at 1/4 (I think- I don't have the manual handy right now). Having had trouble starting, and ultimately having a mechanic get the air out of the system, replacing the water pump and some other work, I want to be sure I consistently start her up without fear of flooding it, etc.So, what's the best procedure? Run blowers, heat up the glow plugs, then start with 1/4 throttle? 1/2 throttle? Zero throttle? After sailing with the engine off for a few hours, any change in routine starting her up again. I've had outboards and gasoline inboards, and they've all had their peculiarities and rituals. I'm just not yet familiar with the diesel.TIA

 

[Roger]

1/3 throttle is right

I use about 30 seconds of glow plug, 1/4 throttle, and the 5411 turns right over (much better since I replaced the wiring harnes!)The trick about the 5411 is how to STOP it! You throttle back until the throttle is into a detente if you go past it it starts to rev again. When throttle is in detente is starves to stop.Roger

 

[Bob Camarena]

Glow Plugs

30 sec on the glow plugs is standard, but if the weather is cold, it's going to take a bit longer. I re-wired my glow plug circuit utilizing an automotive horn solonoid to control a direct run to the glow plugs. Check out the attached link to the archives for instructions on how to do this. It will dramatically increase the efficiency of your glow plugs.

 

[John]

1000 cranking amp battery required!!!!

I have a 81 catalina 30 with the 5411 universal motor. Give it less then a 1/3, just a little throttle, heat glow plug for 30 to 60 seconds and hit the key. The big thing with starting a diesel is to make sure you have a "BIG" Battery. Put a 1000 cranking amp battery in and you will see a big change in starting your boat.Good luckJohn

 

[Ed J]

Thanks!

Thanks, all. Engine is starting nicely, now. Turns out my glow plugs were burned out, among other problems. Amazing little things... The mechanic suggested no more than 10 seconds of heat and even then only if it's cold.I absolutely agree about the cranking amps. I have 2 new batteries, one a 1000 amp (800 cold cranking amp) starter and a 800 amp (500 cold cranking amp) deep cycle. The starter battery now kicks her over instantly. Just for grins, I tried starting with the deep cycle, and it clearly took a few extra seconds, even though the engine was warmed up. Note- I would have bought a 1000 cold cranking amp model if I could have found one in a Group 24!Cheers,Ed