My 1999 f-550 7.3 diesel with 150k has a problem.I have taken it to two ford dealers with no results.

Question

I can start the truck but I have to wait 20 minutes before I can put in in drive. If I try before it warms up it will not move, and I have no power. Under 50 degrees, I have to plug it in, or it will not crank over. Both dealers said that they think it is the injectors. Going down the road after the warm up time it seems to have power. I asked if it was the turbo problem and both said it was working.

Answer 1

check glow plugs.

Answer 2

You have low fuel pressure. What kind of dealers are these? Tell them to look at the service bulletins from that era . It was a common issue for these trucks.

Answer 3

ok threes a few things that can be going on. first as stated check fuel pressure, second you need to check inlet restriction on the suction side of the fuel pump anymore then 6"hg you have a problem and need to start there.

It is very possible that you have injectors that or bypassing and have internal issues. there are a few test that can be for this. first is called an injector buzz test this test energize the coil . the buzz test should be done after the truck has sat overnight and not been ran. if an injector fail to buzz or has a weak buzz tone it is bad. The 7.3 uses a  hydraulically activated injector. With this type of injector there is a correlation of oil used verse fuel used. so if you were to remove the valve covers and crank the engine you will see oil discharged from each injector, any injector that has no oil or a constant flow of oil would be a failed injector.  

Also your starting problems may be glow plug related but it seems unlikely.

So far as the turbo problem goes I don't think so.That turbo is a non vgt type so there is nothing to really stick or bind when cold only. if the impeller turns freely and its not dumping oil down the exhaust its most likely fine

Answer 4

injectors stiction issue very common concern. THe best way to determine which one is when the temps are cold have the dealer due a buzz test on the injectors. Listen to the sound for weak ones. Then plug in the block heater for about an hour or 2 and redo the test and listen to the sound difference. The ones that get louder are sticking. You may need to do this procedure a couple of times to find all the weak injectors. The block heater cause the injectors to warm up and free the injectors from sticking. Also glow plugs are not used above 50f. I bet you are not having any concerns in warm weather.  

Answer 5

sound like the injector are leaking ,, but the only way to find out is to check the fuel pressure,to make sure,,,

im sure you already check the oil level ,or fluid level

visual check the vacuum hose that's connected to the turbo actuator,,