Starting a Diesel in Cold Weather

[DeepFrz]

Different engines I know but my car owners manual states that the block heater should be plugged in at -7c (about 20 f). Makes a huge difference in how quickly the little car warms up.

[rognvald]

Thanks for all the sincere replies. I found that by turning the engine a couple of times with the kill switch deployed and then opening it to 3/4 throttle, it started easily. For those of us planning a high latitude cruise, these techniques are very important. Best, Rognvald

[JPA Cate]

Rognvald:

Something to ponder on those long winter days, when solar-ing isn't much use: have you enough battery capacity and room to run electric lines and use the inverter to run a 60 w. light bulb under the crankcase 24/7 while you are aboard? This piggybacks on Astrid's statement about keeping the oil warm.

Good you found a way to start it. ;-)

Ann