My truck is starting hard. I recently changed the return lines and fuel filter and everything is tight. The truck usually starts normal, but takes a few seconds of cranking. Glow plugs are still good too. The only other thing I can think of is that my IP is on its way out.

 

low power, hard start, smoking, knocking

any idea on milage of pump?

 

About 160000 miles or so. I'm going to assume its the factory pump. The truck runs fine once its started and warmed up. No loss in power, knocking, or smoke. just starting the truck is hard.

 

could be timing is off.

 

Is that something a shop has to check and re-time or is it something I can do(with the help of my mechanic)

 

What shape are the batteries and cables in? A really worn out IP will usually start ok cold but be hard to start hot. Thats not to say they wont just plain get weak over time/mileage. Before you start your truck the next time it's cold, check the fuel filter to make sure it is full.

 

I could probably use a new set of batteries. Now that I think about it I'm willing to bet thats whats wrong. Anyone know what a set of Interstates would run me? Or what a cheap but still good set of batteries are?

 

I grabbed a pair of batteries from schucks/O'reilly, $100 each, 1000CA. They work a lot better than the pair of 875CA batteries the PO had put in my truck.

 

What brand were they?

 

could anyone tell me how to adjust my injection pump timing? or how to check it...