I know that it is a good idea to use carb cleaner instead of starting fluid on gas engines.

My question is does it work on diesel engines too? Or is starting fluid necessary for diesel engines?

Are we talking about lawn mowers or cars?

Hi,
On OPE it is not recommended, but however it is generally safe to "cheat" by taking a rag, removing the air cleaner and spraying the ether onto the rag , in reasonable quantities, and partially stuffing it into the intake area. In cases of troubleshooting anf fuel degradation, this can often get the engine to start. In the first it runs poorly, and in the second it does so also but the exhaust stinks of the degradation.
Peae,
Clarke

My question was about a diesel engine on a small tractor.
I know that I use starting fluid on the big semi trucks that I work with every day so I know it will work. But the smaller engines ar more sensitive and I was wondering if carb cleaner would work o them.

Hi,
A carb cleaner will often work. The injection systems (direct vs. indirect) and the compressions vary between those engines. The method I already said was my emergency method for the small ones.
Best to make sure that the chosen carb cleaner contains acetone since it is so volatile. Not all do, but acetone will disolve/damage plastic and a piece of plastic lightly sprayed will give it away.
Peace,
Clarke

Thanks Clarke.

I have a friend that wants me to look at her tractor this afternoon. It won't start. I just wanted to know what to take with me.

Have a good weekend...

Hi,
As you probably know, better take the tools to bleed the air from the injection system; most common homeowner problem.
Peace,
Clarke

I'm not sure what the problem actually was. Before I got there they had changed the fuel filter. I took the bleeder screw out of the pump to make sure it had fuel. Then I put the jumper cables on it and it fired right up. He said it ran and sounded normal. So, I packed up all my tools and supplies and headed back to the truck.

The worst part of the whole thing was pushing the wheel barrow full of stuff the 500 feet up and down the field to get to the tractor stuck out in the pasture. :rolleyes:

Hi,
I feel for you! Be glad it was not one of those commercial mowers with three decks and three separate hydraulic systems stuck there. I had one in a creek bottom once. It was 4WD, at least it could get out once it ran.
Peace,
Clarke