difficulties starting engine depending on weather...

[rookieb79]

Hey.
Quite new in the delica and diesel world... just wondering if anyone knows much about this issue..
I have had my L400 for about 2 months now... love it.
However, this morning could not start the engine... I did not try for very long since I had to run for work but still.. don't think it is normal... since I still give it a few good try (yes I waited than for the glow plug to be off..) When I came back from work it started first try... but lots of dark fume coming out.

This morning was quite cold and humid (coastal weather).
I had previously noticed some hesiations in the morning before but if I would give it a little more gaz and it would get going...
The van had sat outside for 2 weeks since I was away...

I almost felt like the engine was not getting enough gaz to start up...
I am not worried but would like to avoid an issue in the future...
Any comments?
Sue

[loki]

I would look at the glow plugs first, also with diesels, once you turn the key to start it, keep it cranking until it starts as it will start after a bit with just the compression warming up the cylinder.

[Green1]

I would look at the glow plugs first, also with diesels, once you turn the key to start it, keep it cranking until it starts as it will start after a bit with just the compression warming up the cylinder.

I can't stress this enough, once you start cranking don't even think about letting off that key until one of the following happens:
1) the vehicle starts and is running fine on it's own.
2) the batteries completely die such that it can't even make a half revolution.

Even if it takes 3 minutes or more, just keep cranking away. If you stop you will loose all the headway you have made and have to start over, only with less power left in your battery for the second attempt.

[rookieb79]

Thanks .... it did indead work.... still will have the glow plug check....
Sue