I have a 95 Dodge Ram 2500 with a Cummins 5.9L turbo diesel that runs great, but has trouble starting if it sits for a few days. After sitting for a few days, it will fire right up for a couple of seconds and then it starts to die. I have to work the throttle to get the rpms up for about a minute or so and then it runs fine and will start right back up after that. I would appreciate any help on figuring out what causes this problem. I know my way around gas engines, but I don't know much about diesel engins.

Thanks.

 

welcome to diesel bombers boomboom sounds like your losing your prime look around and see if you see where it might be leaking check your fuel filter to make sure its snug

 

Thanks. I will check it out. I think it is due for a new filter anyway. Is there any trick to changing these out?

 

times 2 on prime

 

I'd check the return line.
It may be weathered and leaking diesel.

If it is the return line you'll see it spraying diesel while the truck is idling, inside the driver's side front tire. You'll smell it, too. You won't see much with the truck off, though.

 

check for seaping between the frame and the tank.. thats were my issue was and it was doing the same thing... also check around the lift pump.. buddys was leaking at the primer button. hope this helps, BRIAN.

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O seaping out of the fuel lines between the tank and the frame...

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i meant

 

I thought there was a leak somewhere, but I did not know where to look. I will check this out. Thanks for the help.

 

Change all your rubber fuel lines all the way from the tank to the pump. What happens is the lines dry rot from the inside out and let air in without leaking fuel. The supply is 3/8" and return is 5/16". Make sure you sue diesel rated fuel hose and not gasser hose.

Then check fuel pressure.

 

In red in the pic: