Cold Weather Starting

[DLMaine01]

We bought a 2250DT this November so this is our first winter with it. The manual says to energize the glow plugs for 30 seconds or so and then try and start. It never starts on the first try but always on the second or third try. Is this normal? The outside temp is between 10 and 20 degrees F when I start. Should I be doing something different? It is an older tractor and I am starting to do some work on it but will defer all but critical stuff until warmer weather.

 

[gsxr1100]

30 seconds? Wow that is a long time. If an old tractor I would just check the glow plugs.

 

[ByronBob]

I energize mine for 15 seconds in zero weather and starts right up. As mentioned I'd replace the glow plugs and go from there.

 

[longears1]

30 seconds sounds like a long time...I have 3830 and live in Southern Maine, Started it 2 nights ago temp was zero and it fired up easy, glow plug light goes out after 5-10 seconds.....bob

 

[gsxr1100]

I would test them before replacing them. Jsut get the proper ohms for each GP and go from there.

 

[ronjhall]

David
Welcome to TBN. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif
Your 2250DT is a mid 1980's tractor. If it is anything like my B7100 30 seconds may be on the short side of time in below freezing temperatures. Some glow plug was required even in 70 degree temperatures. Be sure battery is kept fully charged.
The best thing to do for your tractor would be to add a block heater. Your local <font color="orange"> Kubota</font> dealer should be able to get one for your model.

 

[gsxr1100]

I agree but why not spend 30 minutes and test the plugs first? Is it free too. Then if they are ok, see what oil you are using. Also look at a coolant or block heater.

 

[SkyPup]

Adding some 2-Ethylhexylnitrate (2EHN) to boost the cetane value of your fuel up some would not hurt anything.

 

[GaryE]

DLMaine01

I have an old B6000 that starts the same way. 30 seconds is not a long time for those old tractors. What I have found helps is to crank the engine for about 5 - 7 seconds before lighting off the GP's. This way when you try to start it, there will be fuel at the injectors. I think what happens is the fuel leaks down from the pump and by the time the fuel gets to the injectors the GP's cool down, but the second time you try it, fuel is there and ready to go.

That aside, it can't hurt to check the GP's, they ALL may not be good. And if you have the "old" style indicator, the small coil that lights up, it too can cause the GP's not to light if defective.

I am waiting for delivery of my new (to me) L3710, I have a new Block Heater ready to install. It does get cold up here!

Gary

 

[DLMaine01]

Thanks To All....
For all the info and advice. I will probably try and replace the GP's because the tractor is indeed a 1985 and it is cheap insurance to do so. I had already contacted the Kubota dealer about a block heater and plan to install one, but was waiting for the weather to warm up a little more than the 3 degrees we had here today. I will try the pre-crank trick because the tractor always starts on the second or third try. I love the tractor and this seems like a great forum. Now if I can just talk the wife into that M4900.........

Thanks Again
Dave