Cold Weather Starting

[MossRoad]

So it seems the consensus that most of the cold starting problems are at 'lower' temperatures where the drag of the hydraulic system puts a strain on an already hard starting condition?
...

I'd say so for me.

 

[Bob999]

So it seems the consensus that most of the cold starting problems are at 'lower' temperatures where the drag of the hydraulic system puts a strain on an already hard starting condition?

Not in my view. I think the problem is a combination of things:
1. Reduced battery power due to low temperature of battery;
2. Reduced volatility of the fuel;
3. Increased drag from cold engine oil;
4. Increased drag from cold hydraulic fluid; and
5. Reduced cranking speeds due to several of the above factors.

In sum, I think it is unlikely that attacking only one of the issues will resolve starting problems at very low temperatures. On the other hand one approach resolves all issues at the same time--raising the temperature of the unit.

 

[SpringHollow]

on my tractor, i used a couple of magnetic heaters on the hydraulic reservoir - clamped to the bottom, turned on by a timer for an hour or so before when i would usually be home to plow. Made a noticeable improvement.

Ken

 

[BobRip]

Could you run the thick stuff in the Summer and thin stuff in the winter. Store the out of season stuff.

I don't see the problem with the torpedo heater, since it warms mostly the hydraulic tank, but also the rest of the equipment at least some. It would also warm the battery.
The two magnetic heaters seems very safe, it just takes some time. We are getting some good ideas here. I may get a second magnetic heater, just in case.

 

[MossRoad]

Went browsing at the auto parts store tonight. YIKES! All synthetic oils are $6.99 a QT!!!

They did have some 0W 40, though. That sounds interesting.

 

[cqaigy2]

Not in my view. I think the problem is a combination of things:
1. Reduced battery power due to low temperature of battery;
2. Reduced volatility of the fuel;
3. Increased drag from cold engine oil;
4. Increased drag from cold hydraulic fluid; and
5. Reduced cranking speeds due to several of the above factors.

In sum, I think it is unlikely that attacking only one of the issues will resolve starting problems at very low temperatures. On the other hand one approach resolves all issues at the same time--raising the temperature of the unit.

Thanks Bob for being more specific then my "an already hard starting condition"

 

[ldabe]

Well, since the last time I posted, I changed the gas in the 422, and also added some dry gas to the fuel.
The 422 started up, and I used it for about 40 minutes before it began the "sputter" again! So, limped back to the garage.
Was not able to work on it or even try to run it again for about another week (today).
Today, I fired it up again. It ran fine in the driveway for about 5 minutes (after idling for about 5 min.
So, a friend in need with bad hips needed some snow removal from his place. Loaded 422 up on trailer, went to his place, started right up, pushed and moved snow for about 10 minutes and the "sputter" begins! And dies! Did this about 2-3 more times as I try to limp my way back onto the trailer. Finally sputters long enough to get it back on.

I WILL NEVER HAVE ANOTHER "ROBINS/SUBARU" ENGINE AGAIN IN MY ENTIRE LIFE!

Sorry guys, but had to get that out. If for nothing else, just for the record.

Well, got it home, went to start it to take it off the trailer, but could not get it started.
Just as well, it needs to see a mechanic (which I am not). But I think it is the carb.

Never...let me repeat that...never, get anything with a ROBINS ENGINE.

 

[SpringHollow]

Sure it is not trash in the gas tank, line, or carburetor?

 

[SnowRidge]

Sure it is not trash in the gas tank, line, or carburetor?

Or clogged gas cap vent? I have had both the clogged cap vent and trash in the tank outlet elbow give me the same symptoms.

 

[Central_PA_Chris]

When my 425 is cold and doesn't want to start I jump it and it fires right up. I think I initially assumed it was a battery issue. Anyone want to tell me jump starting is bad? Only needed to do it 4 or so times as I generally don't use it in winter and when I want to use it it's in the local repair shop anyways (They tell me it's fixed, gotta chip the ice off the trailer and go get it this week, cross your fingers for me!). After this thread, I'll probably do the ceramic heater in the engine compartment trick.