L3940 won't start

[Thrax]

I made the rookie mistake of running out of diesel during the snowstorm while in operation. Came back with diesel, refilled, checked the fuel filter. Followed the procedure to bleed the fuel system as in the workshop manual. It still won't start. Have white smoke while cranking.

I have seen some suggestions to crack the injectors and cranking until diesel runs. Is that the step I'm missing?

Thoughts?

 

[Mark_BX25D]

White smoke generally means unburned fuel. so probably not a bleeding problem.

It can also mean coolant in your combustion chambers, which is a major problem, but nothing in your scenario seems to point to that, so, probably unburned fuel.

It can't hurt to bleed as described, though. It's not difficult or time consuming, and it's free, so might as well. But don't be surprised if it doesn't help.

What are your temps there? Glow plug problem? Have you checked them?

 

[Thrax]

White smoke generally means unburned fuel. so probably not a bleeding problem.

It can also mean coolant in your combustion chambers, which is a major problem, but nothing in your scenario seems to point to that, so, probably unburned fuel.

It can't hurt to bleed as described, though. It's not difficult or time consuming, and it's free, so might as well. But don't be surprised if it doesn't help.

What are your temps there? Glow plug problem? Have you checked them?

40s today. Haven't checked the plugs.

 

[Mark_BX25D]

40's shouldn't be a problem for starting, so probably not glow plugs.

How's the cranking speed? Is it turning over quickly?

 

[Thrax]

40's shouldn't be a problem for starting, so probably not glow plugs.

How's the cranking speed? Is it turning over quickly?

Yes.

 

[Mark_BX25D]

I suggest you do the bleeding and see where that gets you. It may be unburned fuel, but perhaps it's not enough.

 

[brooster]

Open the bleeder, and try cranking for 10 seconds, pause for 30 seconds and try again, repeat, it may take several tries but it will eventually try to start, then when it does it will run slow and a little rough, after 30 seconds close the bleeder, all should be fine. I did the same, check your oil level.