Ford 6600 Diesel Therm ostart

lbpa18 · Nov 14, 2016

Hi all. Have added a Ford 6600 to our Ford 861. Both diesels. The 6600 Operators Manual shows the ignition key switch as having five positions. Straight up is Off, to the right (Clockwise) are On and Start. CCW are Heat and Heat-Start. On this tractor though, the key does not turn CCW. It seems to only have positions CW. Its getting colder and I will need the Heat-Start of the Thermostart. Does anyone have experience here? Thanks.
Lew

joecdeere · Nov 14, 2016

the original switches had the turn to the left for heat, most all the replacement ones you find you have to turn it to the right to just before the starter engages and hold it there for 45-60 seconds. You might need to take a test light and hook to it to be sure power is getting to it, and find the swet spot where it comes on. If it were mine, after checking the power situation, I'd remove the rubber intake hose and have someone hold it in the "Heat" position and be sure that after it becomes hot that it's allowing fuel to dribble onto the heater element.Note, this IS NOT a glow plug, it is literately starting a fire in the intake, never ever use starting fluid.

lbpa18 · Nov 14, 2016

That certainly makes sense and I'll try all of that. Just wish the manual, as well as what Ive been able to find on the internet discussed that. Otherwise what good is having a manual?

Thanks for taking the time to reply.

jimmysisson · Nov 15, 2016

The 6600 could certainly have a replacement switch by now, with different positions.
Jim

DLTTrekkers · Nov 16, 2016

Positions on back of replacmentswitch
1...power from bat
2...power to dash and warninglights on dash
3...Thermostart(heaterplug in intakemanifold)
4...to starting

lbpa18 · Nov 30, 2016

Gents-
I tried keeping the keyed switch just shy of starter engagement for 60 secs. Without attempting to start, I put my hand on the manifold where the Thermostart system attaches. Heat! After that I had to leave town. Upon return it was single digit temps outside. Plugged the block heater in for a couple hours, used the Thermostart for 60 secs and she started right up. Thanks for the assistance.
Lew