7.3 Powerstroke Question

blackdog · 10-15-2003, 12:14 PM

OregonRedside, I sent you an email with a link to 'the diesel stop' web page. it's kinda like ifish, only it deals with nothing but ford diesels. I'm sure they would be able to help you diagnose the problem.

Bait O' Eggs · 10-15-2003, 12:15 PM

I had the cold start problem a while back and installed the GPR109 from NAPA. Solved the problem, even though they told me the part would not fit or work on the 99 per their book

Diesel stop posters told me otherwise and were correct.

My 1999 7.3 has the GPR located on top of the motor just to the left of the fuel filter facing from the front. There is another relay mounted just in front of it. It is about 2.5 inches in diameter and 2.5 inches tall with about 4 post off the top of it.

I had the camshaft sensor go out last weekend.

Motor wont start if it goes. $125 +/- part and 5 minutes and you can swap it out. thinking about getting a spare for the glove box as when it goes you are walking.

[ 10-15-2003, 01:16 PM: Message edited by: Bait O' Eggs ]

WaterDog · 10-15-2003, 12:19 PM

The relay is on the top of motor under the plastic cover. As you face the truck it's on your left. Be sure to diconnect BOTH batteries. Don't ask how I know this.

For more info GO HERE and/or HERE

Search the above sites and you'll learn more than you wanted.

Chromaflage · 10-15-2003, 11:36 PM

Thought about posting this in the General forum, but since there are other vehicle discussions here, I figured I'd follow suit.

I have a '95 Ford C350 Centurion with a 7.3 Powerstroke. It seems that when the outside temp drops below 40 deg. F, it doesn't like to start - kind of cold blooded, and even more so in colder temps. I don't have a block heater in it, but have tried a magnetic oil pan heater - no help there. I've also tried diesel additives - no help there either.

It happened again this AM and it's not all that cold. I have to go through the routine of cranking, waiting 30 seconds - continue cycle until it finally starts.

I understand the gel issue - in freezing temps, but not at 40-45 degrees....

Any input would be appreciated - thanks!

ORS

[ 10-15-2003, 12:48 PM: Message edited by: OregonRedside ]

WaterDog · 10-15-2003, 11:44 PM

May need to replace your Glow plug relay (napa # GPR-109) or have your batteries checked. One bad battery will cause the same thing. Been there done both of these. :smile:

Your problem will one of these.

Chromaflage · 10-15-2003, 11:45 PM

Thanks! Where is the relay located on the vehicle?

ORS

Steelhead Hound · 10-19-2003, 04:22 PM

I've got the old 7.3 and mine did that too. then I got a block heater but still it took a little to long. My old man has a Powerstroke. he plugs his in ever night. BUT... you might just need to replace the GLOW PLUGS. I replaced mine and WOW... what a difference. That fixed it for me.

Chromaflage · 10-19-2003, 04:29 PM

Thanks guys! I'l lthink I'll start cheap and work up from there. I'll also check out that other site.

ORS

onstep · 10-20-2003, 08:04 AM

I had the same problem with my 1996 in last couple of weeks. After my rig sat for a couple days while we were mountain goat hunting NE Oregon it took five minutes to start. I took it to the shop a couple of weeks ago. When they plugged the computer in the rig it showed that I had an exhaust sensor bad so we replaced it. The rig sat for a couple of more days when it got cold here a week ago and did the same thing. Back to the shop again this time we checked glow plugs, power supply, fuel pressure, and computer. Turns out one of the computers was shot so we replaced it. Wow, what a difference no problem starting and glow plug light goes off in a second. The amazing part is how much smoother the rig shifts and runs.