Help, rough running engine in cold temps

[SI2305]

Help!

My 2305 starts just fine in the unheated garage but starts to hesitate, run rough, and occasionally stall. This may happen when under load or just sitting still. I have added winterizer to my entire stash of diesel, including adding some into the engine while it was running--I know, not the best of choices but at the time I was afraid that if I shut the machine off it would not start again. I adjusted the throttle and it almost appeared to run faster with the throttle set at mid to idle positions. Anything above 200 rpm's caused the engine to surge and become generally unstable. Normally I would have just called my dealer but we had 10 inches of snow to clear from a 500' driveway. I did use the machine and I managed to make it sort of work but the plowing which normally takes 10-15 minutes (and getting everything all pretty like) instead took about an hour and is just passable

What's wrong? It has handled these temps before with absolutely no problem at all. I am open to any ideas and/or input.


SI2305

 

[pmhowe]

To me, the fact that it starts just fine but then hesitates and stumbles indicates that you have a fuel supply problem. This can come from any of a number of causes. I'd first check the fuel filter and filter bowl for sediment and/or water. I think the fuel caps are also vented. Yours may be plugged. Others on this site will have better ideas if mine do't help.

 

[Coyote machine]

+1 What pmhowe said about your fuel. When did you last change your fuel filter? Have you checked your air filter for anything that might be obstructing air flow?
How and where did you add fuel conditioner to the engine while it was running? How many hours on the motor?
Are you getting any smoke from the exhaust at startup or when it starts to stumble/hesitate? If so what color smoke?

 

[SI2305]

No question, my fuel filter is overdue for replacement. I was hoping to get to the dealer to get a new one but they were closed on account of the snow!? There is very little smoke at startup and it is white, then disappears altogether. I did have this problem about a week ago with some cold temps. That is when I got the fuel treatment hoping that would solve the problem. Since that first time (3 weeks ago?) the temps soared into the 70's and then plummeted again. Tractor ran fine during the warm period but really ran into problems today--7 degrees. The temp has risen to low 20's by early afternoon but the problem persists. My personal thought about the next step was to get the fuel filter replaced. I have never done it myself and I do not remember the last time it was done. Can I do it myself or is this something the dealer really needs to do? I would prefer to avoid a service call this close to Christmas and I have replaced the oil, hydraulic fluid and generally I can get myself around the machine. However, I do have limits. Again, any info appreciated.

Thanks,

SI2305

 

[Coyote machine]

White smoke is a sign of unburned fuel. If your filter needs changing get 2 and keep one on hand for this type of issue in future. You ought to be able to change it yourself. Do you have any manuals, owner's or service? If not, get them too.
Going from warm to cold temps and having run issues can mean water in the fuel filter/bowl, which freezes then causes stalling, etc.
Is your glow plug circuit working on all cylinders? How many hours on engine!?

 

[SI2305]

The Deere manuel says to not replace a filter unless "Very Dirty." I removed the filter for the first time in some time (last time it was only slightly dirty). Is this what you would call replacement level of dirtyness? I have attached two full resolution photos for examination

 

[SI2305]

Sorry, my internet connection is tenuous at best right now. I only have 1 pict to upload but it should good enough.

SI2305

 

[SI2305]

here is a bigger image

 

[Coyote machine]

Look at the inside of the filter. Now look at the outer weave of the paper. Does it look dirty to you? How many hours on the filter? Sometimes if you work in dusty dirty conditions the filter will jam up with very small particulate matter, which is what it's supposed to do. I'd try changing it and see if you notice any difference in running. you can always put that one aside for dirty working conditions, but clean air and fuel is what any engine needs to function correctly. Don't worry about what the book says, you're trying to get it running properly- go by hours and type of use, a filter is cheap engine protection.
Where are you located? How many hours on the engine????
I need you to answer the questions I've posed so I and others can help you, OK!?:confused2:

 

[pmhowe]

From your pictures, I'd say yours qualifies for replacement.