1994 Ford E350 starter issue? HELP!

[crbcoates]

I have a 1994 E350 Diesel Short bus. It won't start up after sitting for a few months. The battery is in okay shape according to the autoparts store. When I try to start it, it starts to turn over and I get some smoke out the tailpipe. However, the engine doesn't get going fast enough and the battery drains really fast. I think it might be the starter. I'm not good at mechanical stuff. It's parked in tricky spot between two trees (one in front and one behind with about 3 feet of clearance either direction) so I'm not sure if a tow would be possible.

Is replacing a starter something a novice can do?

If you've got any ideas, I'd love to hear them!!!!

 

[Jolly Roger bus 223]

The battery might be in OK shape but it still needs a good full charge in it to turn a diesel over.
If you have a battery charger then put it on slow charge over night or on boost for about 10-15 min. And try again.
The smoke out of the exhaust tells me the fuel is there.
but if it has been setting what is the condition of the fuel?
Try a good hot battery first.

 

[Mr4btTahoe]

Batteries are probably weak. The stock batteries in the E series are junk and undersized at best for cranking the diesel over.


I'm assuming since its a '94, its an IDI... not a powerstroke.


How quickly does it crank and slow down? If it takes longer then 5 seconds of cranking, you are more then likely getting some air in the fuel system or the glow plug system needs some attention.

 

[Johnny Mullet]

Must have a good, fast crank to fire it. I suggest fully charging or replacing the batteries. There should be 2 of them.