Tractor Cranks - But Sputters & Dies - After Sitting For a Day or Two

ma9golj · Aug 27, 2009

Hi Sandman
I have the DK501 (Australia) I had a similar problem with it 3 months ago
Turned out to be 2 things
1- one glow plug burnt out
2- the fuel lift pump check valves hardened
I replaced all 4 glow plugs, the tractor had 160 hrs on the meter
With the fuel pump I tried to get replacement check valves (told by local dealer that pump not a service item - new pump required $140 AUD + postage)
I sourced a electric lift pump for $120 AUD and also fitted a suction filter seperator The electric lift pump alows me to prime the fuel system before the glow, so I now turn the switch to assessories - fuel pump runns wait 3 seconds then turn to run position wait 6 seconds for glow then start.
This proces has allowed first start every time, and allows fuel mfilter changes/inspections then priue
Tractor now has 210 hrs and no further problems

CowwFace · Aug 31, 2009

Hey Sandman,

I'm too new to offer any real advice, but when I brough my tractor home I had a hard time getting it to start.. it would crank and seem like it was JUST about to go and when I would let off of the key it would die. It turned out to be pressure in the hydraulic lines?? so now before I start it I wiggle the control for the FEL and rear blade and it starts with just a touch of the key... It's worth a try for you, but I would bet you already knew this.

Carry on,
Phill

DK40SE with nice GIANT scratch in left fender after 9 hours!!

sandman_2121 · Sep 1, 2009

Hmm.... The hydraulic pressure angle is a surprise. Don't know that I understand how that would matter unless it was straining the engine? I've driven tractors forever on our farm back home - mostly older / simpler farm tractors. I'm good at driving, etc. but by no means any kind of a mechanic. This is the first one I've owned myself. After 30-something years of doing all the other stuff, it's surprising how you still feel like you don't know anything about maintaining one when it's yours. We just moved & I needed it to maintain land, etc.

I bought this one used & think I got a good deal on it. I was almost suspicious about it. But, so far so good. Everything the guy told me has checked out fine. I've really put it through the wringer clearing several acres of some really steep / tough stuff so far. Those first few hours were fun being a little paranoid about something going wrong.

I really appreciate all the suggestions from everybody.