Ford 4500 Diesel Loader/Backhoe

I didn't get a chance to replace the filters (either one because of the coming snow storm) but I did replace the one battery cable that went to the starter. I wasn't expecting much, but fan belt started to turn, but nothing would fire. After about one minute it stopped and started whining.

Does this mean that the engine hasn't seized? Should I invest in getting the right battery for it (I know it sounds dumb, but the mechanics (former Ford dealers) that I usually used said the one from my MF 135 should give enough juice to try and start it without splurging 130 bucks on a new battery....)?

If I have the injectors rebuilt or gone through would that make it work as well?

I'm used to gas tractors and their antics, but if I can make this thing work again that would be great. If I can make this thing at least turn over (it sat outside for the duration) without having the massive expense like my MF 135 it would make my pocket book a little happier. (I don't want to skimp on this thing, I trying going about it more conservatively after dealing with the Massey Ferguson)

Christos

Christos

Sounds like the engine is able to turn over. That's good! The whining was probably the starter. You may be on the short side of having enough power. Charge the battery up and use a big charger while cranking.

Do take Case450's advice and get fresh fuel and filters. Algae can grow in diesel and form black slime that clogs up the filters in a heartbeat. Watch for that! You may also want to add a good size slug of diesel fuel conditioner/cleaner and cetane booster.

Did you use a block heater for 2-3 hours before the attempt? Does the engine have glow plugs or other thermal aid? Could you smell fuel from the exhaust after the cranking you did? IF not, you need to loosen the fittings to the injectors and crank until they have a pretty good flow going. Then tighten up and it should start up.

Don't try and start it with ether, it can toast an engine fast.

good luck!
jb

The diesel turned a rusty color when I bled the fuel filter - I am going to drain the diesel and try and get as much the rust out of there as possible and then replace the filters (oil and fuel)

I didn't smell anything coming out the exhaust - I only observed the belt turning (to my complete and udder suprise).

So when I loosen the injectors, the goal is to crank the Tractor unit to the point that Diesel is coming out of the injector unit and once I reinstall them, it should fire up?

Thank you all very much for the help!

Christos

I've heard once of pouring a tiny tiny bit of diesel fuel into the top of the motor somehow/somewhere to kind of lube the cylinders to help in starting. I've never done it and not too sure if it's even possible. Just some coffee shop talk.