diesel runs rough on start-up

[RoyJackson]

I wonder how jbarker855 made out with his starting problems?

 

[jbarker855]

Well I used the intake air heater and it started up great. It was also 63 degrees out, so I'm not sure if it was a fair test, but I think it was encouraging!
Thanks for the tips guys. I will post a follow up in a few weeks to let you know how it goes!
Thanks again all, and no offense to you tractor waxers!:laughing:
-Jay

 

[wolc123]

I am not sure if my 4120 is a 2005 or a 2006 but it will do the same thing if I dont use the block-heater. It is not bad during the summer, but whenever the temp is below 50 degrees or so, I always use the block heater. They installed it for me at Barchell's when the tractor was new at no charge. Thats probably where your tractor came from. I use the block heater for 30-60 minutes and the tractor starts smoother than mid-summer, even when it is south of zero degrees out. I can only imagine how much the engine wear is reduced by always using that block-heater for cold starts, so I am actually thankfull for the "rough sounding" starts without it.

 

[Ford tractor]

Is there any smoke when it is cold running rough?

 

[JD 4520]

Jay

I have a similar symptom and issue on my 4520 How long do you apply the intake heater until you fire up the engine? The manual doesn't describe how to properly operate the intake heater. Does anyone know a proper procedure for the intake heater or do you know what to be cautious of?

 

[RoyJackson]

Jay

I have a similar symptom and issue on my 4520 How long do you apply the intake heater until you fire up the engine? The manual doesn't describe how to properly operate the intake heater. Does anyone know a proper procedure for the intake heater or do you know what to be cautious of?

I have a Deere 4400, so not the same tractor. But below 35 degree, I use the intake heater for a count of 20...so try 20 seconds and see how that works. You may need more, or you might try less...but try 20 seconds initially.

This is the procedure, per your Operators Manual:

9. For cold weather starting, use the intake air heater system. Activate the intake air heater system by pushing in the ignition key switch with the key, and holding it there for the required time:
• 10 - 15 seconds for temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F).
• 15 - 30 seconds for temperatures below -18°C (0°F).

 

[Soundguy]

i wouldn't be afraid to glow it twice either. ie.. standard glow, wat a few seconds, then another.

I do that on my diesel trucks sometimes if it's 30 or below.

soundguy

 

[Dr_Zinj]

Does your glow plug light automatically turn off after a set time or when they reach operating temperature? If you wait too long afterwards to start, they may have cooled back down, causing a rough start.

 

[RoyJackson]

Does your glow plug light automatically turn off after a set time or when they reach operating temperature? If you wait too long afterwards to start, they may have cooled back down, causing a rough start.

The Deere intake heater is actuated by pushing the ignition key switch in and holding it. My Deere requires the key to be turned to the "RUN" position (but not all the way to the "START" position). I'd say most other Deere tractors are similar.
Once the key switch is pushed in, the "Glow Plug" light comes on...it only stays on as long as the key switch is pushed in.

 

[Glen Watkins]

NOTE: It is normal for the engine to be louder and for blue-white exhaust smoke to be present during engine warm-up. The amount of exhaust smoke depends on air temperature.

I know when I start mine it runs rough and smokes some at first but the reason for this is the fuel mixture is enriched for decreased wear and colder temperatures, automatically. Only runs this way for less than a minute. There is an initial rpm boost for a split second also. Computer control. I read this somewhere and will try to find it.