Questions on starting my Mitsubishi D1800

[BRYBURTON]

I haven't been able to start my tractor since it has warmed up.

Question 1) What is "ST" on the ignition switch? There are four positions beside the ignition switch "ST OFF ON START".

Question 2) I'm pretty certain that my glow plugs are not working. Do they need to be hot in order to start the engine when the air temp is 80 F?

Question 3) It seems like there is a sweet spot on the throttle when starting the tractor. Where do you position the throttle when starting your tractors? Do you keep it in one place, work it back and forth, other?

Thanks for any advice.

 

[Ilikeurtractor]

1.) Not exactly sure what "ST" stands for, but I'd assume it is for glow plug pre-heat.
2.) In general, glow plugs are required even in warm ambient conditions. Most tractors activate the glow plugs when the switch is in the "start" position also.
3.) I've seen mixed results on rack positioning during starting. Too much rack/fueling can actually quench the heat developed in the cylinder and cause harder starting, but most manuals recommend a full rack setting in cold weather. Some diesel engine setups go to full rack because of the governor trying to keep the engine running when shut down so after a minimal amount of lever setting you'll be there. It depends on the mechanics of the engine and fueling setup. Trial-and-error is probably the best bet in this case and it may vary under different temperature conditions.