diesel runs rough on start-up

[JD 4520]

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ｰC (0ｰF).
15 - 30 seconds for temperatures below -18ｰC (0ｰF).

Thanks Roy for pointing me to this. I could not locate this same instruction in my operators manual, looking specifically for length of time. I wanted to make sure that I was not activating the intake heater for too long, not knowing what potential damage it may cause. Doesn't appear to be an issue.

In addition to the operator manual that came with my tractor, is there another or other highly recommended manuals to have in my reference materails?

 

[RoyJackson]

Thanks Roy for pointing me to this. I could not locate this same instruction in my operators manual, looking specifically for length of time. I wanted to make sure that I was not activating the intake heater for too long, not knowing what potential damage it may cause. Doesn't appear to be an issue.

In addition to the operator manual that came with my tractor, is there another or other highly recommended manuals to have in my reference materails?

The service manual is always nice to have, even if you don't plan on doing your own work (other then what's called out in the Operators Manual).

I copied those instructions out of the online Operators Manual under "Starting the Engine"...look for it there.
As far as operating too long...30 seconds is plenty...holding the keyswitch in for 30 seconds will tire your finger and thumb out.

 

[jbarker855]

Gbomalley-
sorry for late reply, but it looks like you already have your answer. Listen to Roy- he know's what he's talking about!
Check page 26 of your owners manual. At least that is where my manual talks about the intake heater.
-Jay

 

[dusty3030]

Posted a video but it never would display. Will try again later.

 

[Dr_Zinj]

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.

Interesting. My Bobcat has an ignition key position for pre-heat and doesn't have to be held there. Guess they figure the owners will turn it on, then sip their coffee until the heating light goes out.

 

[CrownHawg]

Well, I'll be! All this time I have been simply turning the key and waiting a few seconds before starting thinking this is the "cold start" method. My 4120 does exactly like the OP's does. When cold it will start with a big puff of black smoke, idle rough for a few seconds then smooth out. Of course it doesn't get real cold here in Arkansas, but even when it's cool it will start rough. I just thought it was supposed to. I went back and looked at the operators manual and saw where you hold IN on the key for the pre-heater. Thanks Roy!

 

[JD 4520]

A pile on question to this topic: how will I know that the glow plug or intake heater is properly working? Is there a positive way to confirm that it's working?

I started my tractor last evening with this newly understood procedure and it did not appear to make a difference in the way it started. Weather here in the PNW is rainy and low 40's if that is useful.

 

[RoyJackson]

A pile on question to this topic: how will I know that the glow plug or intake heater is properly working? Is there a positive way to confirm that it's working?

I started my tractor last evening with this newly understood procedure and it did not appear to make a difference in the way it started. Weather here in the PNW is rainy and low 40's if that is useful.

There is a procedure in the Service Manual, I believe...do you have one? With glowplugs, I know they can get coked up with carbo and lose their effectiveness...but that takes a lot of hours. Don't know about intake heaters though.
I don't own a 4x20 series tractor with the Deere built engines, but I have read on more then one post (and more then one website) that they don't start near as easily as the Yanmar powered Deeres.
It might be the nature of the beast...

 

[wolc123]

If you run a 4x20 up north your best investment is a block heater. 45 min to 1 hour plugged in and they start real smooth - no black smoke or rattly sound as happens otherwise, even if you do use the preheat (push key in). The block heater also eliminates much of the engine wear that results from cold starts because it thins the oil and lets it get to the bearings quicker. The only time I dont use the block-heater on my 4120 in the fall thru spring is if I need to start the tractor in an emergency (such as to fetch a shot deer out of the woods or pull a stuck car out of the ditch). There have been very few such incedents over the 6 years I have owned the tractor (Usually I use my gas-powered 8n or Farmall cub to fetch the deer, unless 4wd is required) so I expect that Powertech engine to last a long time. A block heater is very easy to install and can probably be purchased for well under $100. You are crazy to run a 4x20 in the winter up north without one.

 

[JD 4520]

I do not have a service manual and am looking for one.

I like the block heater idea and will do that. Do I get one from the dealer or is there other options? I usually purchase from the dealer to support them but I don't want to hugely over pay either.

Thanks for the help.