Kubota BX1860 Will Not Start

PHudson68 · May 15, 2022

I have a Kubota BX1860 that will not start nor are there any signs of combustion.

I have performed the following to the fuel system:

Removed fuel tank and cleaned out the garbage left by the decaying fuel level unit. (A considerable amount of rust was present). Reinstalled tank
Replaced all fuel supply lines from fuel tank to fuel injector pump
Replaced (2) inline fuel filters
Replaced electric fuel lift pump
Fresh diesel fuel
Bled air at injector pump body inlet
Bled air at injector nozzle inlets, one at a time

The starter turns over the engine normally but there are no indications of combustion.
The glow plug indicator light illuminates.
There is no sign of fuel oil or coolant in the motor oil.

The engine stop solenoid is pulling in and out but I’m a little unclear to it’s sequence of operation. This machine incorporates a Operator Presence Control amid a Timer Relay.

One of my first questions is: What is the normal lever position on fuel the valve connected to the solenoid? Power to the solenoid retracts the plunger, does this cut fuel or open?

Second question: What am I missing?
Prior operation was standard except for having to occasionally blow fuel line back into tank to clear. The machine was shut down normally without any indication of malfunction. I have worked 1800 hours on this machine and maintained as required. Other than a tremendous amount of broken plastic body pieces, there are no abnormal disturbing signs of wear, leaks, or smoke.

Any and all advice is welcomed and greatly appreciate.

Roadworthy · May 15, 2022

If you have not done so clean or replace the air filter and ensure the path to the intake manifold is clear. Sometimes it is also possible to get a defective fuel filter.

KWentling · May 15, 2022

Your BX1860 is several generations newer than anything I have, but I think this still applies. The fuel valve rod would be extended when in the run position and retracted to kill the engine. It is on a timer and and will retract when the switch is turned off and then return the run position after several seconds. You shouldn't have to bleed the fuel system. It self bleeds but no harm doing that. Do you have fuel at the injector when cranking?

This fuel system sounds like what is on my ZD and not on my older BX, as you cannot see the solenoid operation on it.

loggin · May 15, 2022

Are you sure the lift pump is working? Have you checked all fuses?

Henro · May 15, 2022

It might be considerate to summarize the 14 replies you got to the identical question posted on the other forum…would save everybody from telling you the same thing a second time, and perhaps get you some different suggestions, rather than just a repeat a second time of what has already been offered.