Looking at buses (DT408) Need help

[ryder90]

Hey all, I am looking at some buses that have DT408s in them and was wondering if it would be better to get a DT408 or DT466E? I believe the 466E has glow plugs and the 408 does not. Is this a big advantage or disadvantage? Living in the midwest, we deal with cold weather for almost half the year, is starting easier with glow plugs? They have block heaters but I may not always have a chance to plug it in if I need to start it up in cold weather. Do I just leave it running for 30 minutes while I eat lunch somewhere or what?

I just got back from looking at some buses with DT408s that have been sitting for over a year. They cranked but wouldn't start, likely gelled up fuel and the temp is still below freezing (Nothing plugged in). Sorry for all the questions, thanks in advance for your help!

[Jarlaxle]

The 408 is a smaller version of the 466. It's pretty tough, but kind of thin on power. All are old-school mechanical engines, no electronics. I'd prefer the 466 for more power & probably better transmissions (no AT545's).

The 466 doesn't have glow plugs (none of International's 6-cylinder diesels do). The 408's you saw probably sat long enough to lose prime (air in the fuel system). They have to be bled. A 408 or 466 will fire in sub-zero temps without any problems, as long as the rings are good & batteries are healthy. It takes a LONG time for a big diesel to cool completely...even after 3-4 hours, the coolant can be 100 degrees.