Cold weather starts

[HAR]

So, after nearly 20 years of ownership, I finally had a cold weather start problem on Sunday. It was -18F and I just could not get it to start. Let's see: after several years of mild winters, I forgot to fill up with winter mix fuel, forgot to change/clean fuel filter, and my battery was 11 years old. I wonder what might have gone wrong? Oh, yeah, and my owner's manual only has this to say about cold weather temps.

So if I read the manual right, maybe I am not supposed to try and start it below 5F. Ha ha. I would be laughed right out of the state.

New fuel filter, proper fuel mix, and a new battery installed, it now runs just fine. Maybe I should be good to go for a few more years, or at least remember to think next fall. Ha ha

 

[jonsstihl]

I switch to power service white bottle in september that way I'm sure I get good protection by the time it gets really cold. currently using one 5 gallon can to fuel tractor. usually when it gets below half a tank. I would love to have a bulk setup but I only use about 100 gallons a year

 

[HAR]

I also use the white bottle, just 'forgot' this year. Dumb me. It has just been so mild, it just has slipped my mind. Yesterday, it was 28F, and after I did a jump start, I added a cap full to the winter fuel mix, and with a topped off tank, I blew snow. Today I installed a new battery. I have no fear about it not starting now, but will definitely remember this next year, before winter starts.

 

[Thomas]

Ever year late fall new fuel filter I plan on and only purchase diesel where heavy equipment purchase there because diesel fresher also add anti diesel,tractor plug in just have throw switch,20 second glow plugs 15 min warm up time after starting and let the fun begin.

 

[HAR]

I get my off road diesel fuel from my local fuel dealer who sells/delivers diesel, off road diesel, gasoline, home heating fuel, kerosene, propane to homes/farms/businesses throughout the county. I figure his fuel is probably as fresh as anyone's. I have never had a 'fuel' problem, other than me having the wrong mix in the tank.

 

[oosik]

I use Power Service white bottle year round. My only addition in the winter - Battery Tender. I've never had a starting problem. Even down to -15F. Below that temp - I have no real business being outside.

 

[MHarryE]

Not sure how yours is but needed to use both my L6060 and M7-171 a few days ago when it was below zero. I did what my dealer told me - ignition on until the glow plug light goes out. Turn off, then repeat. Try starting after the glow plug light goes out.

I was concerned about the L6060 continuing to run as I think it has #2 diesel. The M7 has #1 because it gets used regularly.

 

[thepumpguysc]

Cycling the glow plugs are highly recommended in cold weather.. (2-3x)
It does no harm, unlike starting fluid..

 

[ROUSTABOUT]

Plug it in.

 

[bcjmmac]

There is another long discussion on starting in cold weather.