New Diesel Owner - starting issues

[campbamc]

Just bought 2003 6.0 Super Duty to pull RV. Never owned diesel at all, so forgive ignorance.

Ran great for couple of months then began having 2 issues 1) not re-starting after running for a while, would turn over but not firing, and then 2) one day batteries flat dead. Jumped it off (which was tough) and ran couple of miles to recharge, but would not start again after stopped. Had batteries checked, both fine. I'm thinking it must be alternator. My question is, could the issues be related, or is it likely that I have problem with starter or something as well?

Do older models need to cool down a while before restarting, or is this an issue to be concerned about?

[bbs]

Someone with more knowledge can probably answer more fully, but to answer a few of your questions -
- I don't think a 2003 6 liter is considered an "older model"
- Diesels should start just fine warm. There is something wrong with yours.
- Diesels have to spin moderately fast to start.
- This diesel needs high oil pressure in order to operate the fuel injectors. No oil, it won't start. Not spinning fast enough to get high oil pressure, and compression, no start.
- This diesel is electronically controlled. A bad sensor could make it stop. A bad sensor not letting it start is less likely but possible. The reason I think about sensors is that it could be heat related.

Someone with good electronics (NOT a resistor "load testor") can pretty easily test batteries, charging system and parasitic drain. Check your oil (assume you have), and see if there are any codes in the computer. It sounds from what you say that it is reproducible, so it should be pretty easy to find.

A simple multi-meter will at least tell you if the alternator is putting out anything.

Good luck.

[campbamc]

That helps me understand how it works a little better. Thanks for the info.

[bigblackstroker]

Had an older diesel wit a similar prob, turned out to be he voltage regulator, it would over amp th alternator and wouldn't change the batteries correctly, eventually blew up te alternator. Have you checked the voltage being put to the batteries while its running?

[F250crazy]

Bad batteries also plays havoc on the [ficm]. Sounds like the batteries are bad or alt is not charging or both. All of which can give you starting and drivability issues.