7.3 hard starting when cold. Starts then dies have to jump then it will start after cranking a lot . After starts up will start rest of day got any clue? vinny

As you likely know, glow plugs heat the fuel and the block heater heats the engine. It sounds like it's cold enough where you live that the engine starts easier the rest of the day, based on residual heat. Good general maintenance, however, can lessen reliance on block heaters. See if some of the ideas below help:

. Ensure block heater operates properly.

. Check engine oil level--ensure it's filled to the top line. This affects fuel pressure.

. Check the fuel injectors. Take the valve cover off and look at the exhaust part of the injector when it is running. Each time the injector fires, you should see oil exhausting from it. If you see oil coming out, then the injector is good. When replacing a bad injector, take the glow plug out and crank the engine to get any oil out of the cylinder. If you don't, you could hydro-lock and bend a rod.

. Purge fuel filter or fuel separator of water. Do this at least monthly--daily, if necessary. Water can be a big problem with diesels.

. Use synthetic 5W-40 heavy duty engine oil (HDEO). Installing a by-pass oil filter makes using top-quality synthetics very cost effective, when integrated with a used oil analysis (UOA) program. All engines run better on synthetics, particularly turbo diesels. Besides significantly improved engine life, turbo life, performance, and gas mileage, synthetics promote easier starting, by allowing increased cranking speed. This last factor is particularly important in cold weather. Synthetics are also easier on batteries and starter motors.

http://www.mobiloil.com/USA-English/...uck_5W-40.aspx

. Clean battery terminals and connections.

. Ensure both batteries are fully charged, after checking fluid levels.

. Replace air filter.