Hi guys this is my first post, anyways i've had a 97 powerstroke for about a year mow and have not any prior issues with the truck(usually starts right up). Well today it was -18 c and when I hopped in I noticed it was cranking very slow not starting at all (no smoke, nothing) I contined to try to start the truck untill my batterys died no luck, it was 6:30 and had to be a work for 7 so i plugged in the block heater and went to work. when i got home hoping that the truck was just cold i called a tow truck for a jump, after several times jumping still no luck. What gives? what do you guys think any help would truly be appricated thanks


Coty

Edit: i have tested my gpr, and even lit a little coffee can fire under my oil pan. my water in fuel, engine temp, and fuel filter light are on now also

 

sounds like the batteries are shot. put a voltage tester on the batteries, 13.6 is full, anything under 12 is dead. when the batteries die on our pickups the computer freaks out sometimes so that would explain your warning lights. the powerstroke puts alot of strain on the batteries so the walls inside break down faster. usually need new batteries every 2 -3 years

 

Sounds like a battery/starter issue from your description...

 

I hope so im going to pick up set of batterys and a starter today. also could bad glow plugs cause this? thanks for the help guys

coty

 

I think it is battery, starter, and glow plugs issues. Plus, check the ignition leads. If they are dirty it can be causing issues as well with your truck. good luck.

 

Every time I buy a 7.3, I put new glow plugs in it. It's a maintenance item to me. In my opinion, knowing that you have good glow plugs is never a bad thing...

 

alright guys threw 2 new batterys in my truck she started right up but now i have a bigger problem the connectors were my glow plugs are are smoking and melting what could this be? im freaking out


Sorry double post

 

alright guys threw 2 new batterys in my truck she started right up but now i have a bigger problem the harness were my glow plugs are are smoking and melting what could this be? im freaking out thanks

coty

Edit: heres some pictures

 

i also found this loose wire hooked up to some bolt right above the oil pan on the front passenger side could this be my problem, maybee a bad ground? sorry for the bad quality pics

 

there's no external ground for the glow plugs so that ground wire won't have anything to do with it. as far as the melting and smoking, you need new glow plugs