I am stressing out while waiting to hear back from my shop. My 2014 F550 threw a check engine light and lost power, dropping to about 20 mph. One of our employees turned around and drove it back to the yard soon after the issue started. I figured I’d try changing the fuel filters to see if that would fix the power loss, but after changing them, the truck wouldn’t start, even though I primed the pump more than 6 times.
While I was out running an errand, our employee tried to start the truck using starter fluid, which I’ve since learned is not a good idea. He said he sprayed some before cranking, and while it did start, it revved up high but didn’t over-rev and then shut off.
If it did over-rev, don’t expect the employee to be honest about it.
We used to start old diesel equipment with starting fluid every winter morning. We’d engage the compression release, get the engine spinning, then give a quick one-second shot of ether into the air filter inlet before releasing the compression. That would bring the engine to life. These engines didn’t have glow plugs, and without starting fluid, they would drain the four large batteries before they’d start on cold mornings these were eight-foot-long Caterpillar engines producing 275 HP.
With a modern diesel, though, it’s a different story. I definitely wouldn’t use it on my Powerstroke.
The only answer given here. There is never any truth from an employee who has put anything in danger.
There, he or they are holding two cans that soak the intake, causing the motor to run away. Not really. It sprayed for one second. Not even that long, to be honest. Why it’s making that sound right now is beyond me.
From experience, I know that occasionally a filter swap can trap air unexpectedly. It’s difficult to say for sure if there’s a derate issue involved.
When it comes to your 6.7s, remember this: clean fuel is essential for any modern diesel. Before we even get to that, change your oil every 5,000 miles or 200 hours, whichever comes first. Replace the fuel filters every other oil change, and stick to that 5,000-mile or 200-hour interval.
Many overlook engine hours, especially idle hours. Each idle hour is equivalent to 30 miles. When evaluating a used 6.7, factor in these numbers. For example, if the truck reads 100,000 miles and has 1,000 idle hours, that’s an additional 30,000 miles, bringing the total to 130,000 miles. Some of these trucks have surprisingly high idle hours.
As for the spray, as long as it’s not excessive, you should be fine. Just make sure to keep that individual from ever using that product again.
