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1999 Ford F-350 Diesel Hard Start

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SAINTCIN
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have a 1999 ford 350 deisil dually with 177,000 miles on it. What makes it not start even on a 60 or 70 degree day unless its plugged in. It turns over good enough to start it but, the battery is getting weak if it dont start right away or after a few seconds.
Mar 18, 2006 at 3:14 AM
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LOVESCARS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 359 POSTS
Glow plugs

You should make sure your batteries are strong enough to crank this engine. Fords are known for needing new or good batteries to not create start problems.I recommend Interstate batteries w/the highest rated CCA for the vehicle.
It would be wise to check with your local parts store or repair manual prior to replacing the relay.The relay needs to allow enough current through to heat the glow plugs to allow starting.
You can check the power being delivered to the glow plug to be sure it's sufficient.
I've attached a website you may find helpful as both items mentioned could be the culprit of your start problem.
The link below addresses start problems with Fords in specific.Copy and paste to your browser and please let us know how you make out.
You will see this is not just an easy try this repair and can be costly guessing where to look first. You been given the initial advice of where diesel problem start but they run far beyond the recommendations made.
Mar 18, 2006 at 10:49 AM
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ATERRY606
  • MEMBER
  • 22 POSTS
glow plug relay
Sep 5, 2007 at 5:54 PM

Suggested Repair

Confirm the batteries have high enough CCA and can crank the diesel reliably. Test the glow plug relay for adequate current and verify power at the glow plugs before replacing parts, since weak batteries, glow plugs, or the relay can prevent starting unless the engine is plugged in.

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Conversation Summary

A 1999 Ford F-350 diesel dually with 177,000 miles cranks but will not start on mild 60–70 degree days unless it is plugged in, and repeated cranking weakens the battery. The expert advised checking battery strength, glow plugs, and glow plug relay current and power delivery before guessing at costly parts. The owner then mentioned the glow plug relay, with no confirmed repair outcome.

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