Starting a 7.3 truck in -37 weather… how do you do it?

I had to start my 2002 7.3 in -37 weather earlier this year. Took about 15 minutes, several glow plug cycles, and some patience. No block heater, as I was off-grid. Curious how others handle these cold starts?

For anyone with a 7.3, remember your glow plugs stay on for a while after the light goes off. There’s a Ford chart showing how long to let them run based on temperature. Most people don’t wait long enough and overcycle their plugs.

@Reese
Do you have a link to that chart?

Charlie said:
@Reese
Do you have a link to that chart?

I don’t have the link, but I have a photo of it somewhere. It’s for 99.5-03 7.3 models. If I figure out how to post the picture here, I’ll share it. It’s definitely helpful if you don’t have a block heater.

@Reese
You should make a separate post with that chart. A lot of folks would benefit from it.

@Reese
I think they cycle on and off instead of staying on constantly. Glow plugs usually burn out if left on too long.

Thorne said:
@Reese
I think they cycle on and off instead of staying on constantly. Glow plugs usually burn out if left on too long.

My 6.0 keeps them on for around 45 seconds after the truck starts. You can tell because the voltage stays low without fluctuating.

2002 7.3

Fairbanks?

West said:
Fairbanks?

Montana earlier this year.

How long did it take to start? Did you have to use ether? These cold starts are tough.

Eren said:
How long did it take to start? Did you have to use ether? These cold starts are tough.

Took 8-10 glow plug cycles. No ether, but I have four big group 31 batteries on the truck. Also using 0w40 synthetic oil. Took about 15 minutes to fire up.

@Glenn
You’ve done this before, haven’t you?

@Glenn
I used to do the same, but now I give it a small spray of ether. Starts on the second crank every time.

@Glenn
Why not winterize your truck properly? Treat it better in this weather.

Ben said:
@Glenn
Why not winterize your truck properly? Treat it better in this weather.

I had #1 diesel in it, so it was treated.

Glenn said:

Ben said:
@Glenn
Why not winterize your truck properly? Treat it better in this weather.

I had #1 diesel in it, so it was treated.

That’s not enough. You need an engine block heater, oil pan heater, and maybe a garage. -40 is too cold for shortcuts.

@Ben
I’m off-grid, so those options don’t work for me.

Glenn said:
@Ben
I’m off-grid, so those options don’t work for me.

What about a Webasto heater?

Zen said:

Glenn said:
@Ben
I’m off-grid, so those options don’t work for me.

What about a Webasto heater?

I have the bunk heater version already.