Engine won't start

[hwy49rver]

2002 Journey 5.9 ISB. Returned from a trip, took the coach to stroage lot, everything fine. Went back a few days later to connect Silverleaf VMSpc, now the engine won't start. Plenty of fuel, generator runs fine, had service done 2 months ago new filters etc.

I called Sivlerleaf they say connecting the VMS should not have caused anything, called Freightliner he said the same thing.

The lift pump is running. What do I check next?

Bill

[bdpreece]

As with most troubleshooting procedures look at what you did last. Is it possible while connecting the Silverleaf you knocked/pulled something else loose?

[srydve]

I can't see the silver leaf causing your problem but I'll assume you unplugged it anyway. I'll also assume your batteries are good and it's turning over at a good rate. Don't know where you are or how cold it is but if the glow plugs were not providing pre-heat, that might prevent starting. It's messy but to be positive you are getting fuel crack an injector line while someone else cranks the engine to be sure. You can wrap a rag around it to keep it from spraying everywhere when the motor is cranked. Stay clear of fans and belts just in case it starts. If your service included an air filter then it should be good, but never hurts to check it. Good luck.

[hwy49rver]

I live in California, the weather is very warm 95 F, the batteries are strong the engine turns over very well. The air filter is nearly new. There are no glow plugs I believe there is only intake maifold heater. I'll check to verify fuel is flowing.
Do you know if there is fuel pump relay/fuse?

I checked under the dash did not find anything loose.

[Iron Man]

If you engine has a computer check the ecm fuse.

[hwy49rver]

It has a ECM would you know where the fuse might be located? I do have the wiring diagram from Freighliner and plan on looking for the fuse tomorrow.

[srydve]

I'm going to try and send you a pm with some pics attached.

[srydve]

Pics:

[deandec]

If you have checked for fuel at an injector and find it lacking, check that the fuel shutdown solenoid is staying open during the start sequence to allow fuel to flow.

If engine cranks but will not start or stay running, that has been a problem on my rig. In my case the ignition wire was loose.

Mine is on the psgr side of the engine near the throttle linkage. The shaft rises when the ignition key is turned on.

[spike45]

Do you have white vapor coming from the exhaust pipe while cranking? No, then there is no fuel delivery. Startup and Shutdown on an ISB are controlled by the ECM. You may well have a sensor failure.

[wa8yxm]

I'm not an expert on that engine but I do know a bit about electroincs and computers.

The Sliverleaf monitor should NOT cause any problems, but.. Plugging it in might.

For the experts on that system a quesiton which implies a solution already hinted at:

IS ECM computer power delivered to teh OBD port, and is it possible that in the act of plugging in the Sliverleaf the owner may have accidently shorted the ECM power lead, blowing the fuse refrerenced above?

[hwy49rver]

Thanks to all. I checked everything electrical and find nothing wrong. There has been no check engine light or and codes. Today I was able to get the engine to start and run for a second or 2 then stop. I did this several times. I do have to crank about 20 seconds for the engine catch. There must be air is the system but I have no idea where it is introduced?

Bill

[rvjimmy]

Check to see if the fuel filter is tight.or just take it of and see if it has fuel in it and then fill it and try it, check to see if you have a fuel separator it maybe sucking air. If you have the filters off might be the best to change them with new.

[gknott]

You say your lift pump is running, but maybe no real pressure being created. Maybe hook up a 15# gauge to port on the side of the filter housing on the engine. It should be putting out a very minimum of 5 # and more like 10 to 14# I have found on our old unit.
Gerald