Hinimoto engine heater

[KubotaSteve]

My uncle has a small hinimoto E14 or something like that. I had the number but forgot. It is a small machine (maybe 16 HP or so). Anyway it will not start when it is cold, but when warm it starts fine. We're thinking it is the heater. He said when he turns the key to warm it, it doesn't seem like it is getting warm.
First question is how can you check this?
Second question is how difficult is it to replace this?

Thanks,

 

[DieselPower]

Are we talking about a diesel engine? Can't say I have ever worked on a Hinimoto before. If it is a diesel I guess your talking about the glow plug system. First check to see if the glow plugs are getting power when the key is in the preheat position.

 

[js5020]

I'd check the glowplugs also, sounds like they are not working, I have a Hinomoto and it starts fine in the cold. I also have a block heater but don't use it above 10 degrees.

 

[KubotaSteve]

Yeah, its a diesel.
If there was a problem with the glow plugs,would the engine still run when the temp is warm outside. The only time it doesn't want to start is when the temp. is cold outside. He kept it inside his garage but wouldn't start until outside temp. was a little warmer.

 

[js5020]

Sounds just like glowplugs, however make sure your battery is sized correctly. A car battery is insufficient in cold weather to spin the engine fast enough. My Hino will start fine without glowplugs once we get above 50.

 

[VistanTN]

My A-C 5020 is really a Hinomoto down underneath the orange paint. My glow plugs are shot and it is hard starting in cold weather -- but with enough battery power it will start, reluctantly. Haven't found a source for new glow plugs yet. As for running in warmer weather or any time after it starts, the plugs have little/no effect since they are only powered in the pre-heat position.