2004 Cummins Engine Shutdown/ 30 seconds

[BTux]

2004 Monaco HR Endeavor 38PST. 8.3 Cummins. Engine would start and run 30seconds and shut down. Could reset the ECM by disconnecting the batteries, then restart to repeat the problem. Some codes indicated possible lift pump, injector pump, etc. It has healed itself and has multiple starts and shutdowns.
No driving under load as yet. The ECM will be updated (3 updates) tomorrow. Cautiously trusting this machine now.

[wolfe10]

Have you physically verified that there is not a fuel leak at the fuel pump?


If leak when sitting, it can also SUCK AIR when running. Diesel will not run when you just inject air.

[andy29847]

The 8.3 in my Cummins has a lift pump that run for 30 seconds on start up. After that, the Cummins CAPS insisted takes over fuel delivery chores. I suspect you might have trouble with the CAPS pump.

[jacwjames]

The lift pump actually is suppose to run for 30 seconds prior to starting, part of the "Wait to Start" light on the dash.



If you are taking it a Cummins shop for the updates they can pull codes to determine what was causing the shutdown. While you are there ask them for a copy of the ECM programing both in paper and CD form, always good to have is something happens.

[153stars]

Leaking lift pump has killed several CAPS injector pumps posted here. I would try to tighten three lift pump bolts and look for seepage before even driving to shop.
Always suspect fuel filters first as well.

[dons2346]

Had the same problem, start run for 30-45 seconds and shut down. Ended up being a faulty oil pressure sensor

[olddog1943]

I had a similar problem! My coach had been sitting and to make a long story short, the problem turned out to me a clogged fuel line. The fuel had jelled and was restricted the flow. Cleaned out fuel line and all was well but only after replacing fuel pump, filters and sitting alongside road for 12 hours.

[olddog1943]

Used a fuel additive thereafter and never had any more problems

[BTux]

Thank you one and all for your Valuable insight. These all help the Cummins Techs time and aggravation. We have explored each of these suggestions/experiences. The original ECM was 20 updates behind . While trying to rewrite files to the ECM , the ECM has crashed. This was the most likely problem from the beginning, yet not sure because the ECM was not storing codes. New ECM today...

[BTux]

After being at the Cummins shop in Spartanburg,SC, thought all was good with new ECM. 20 minutes after departure, we are down on the side of I26. Complete engine shutdown. Cummins dispatched an Excellent field tech immediately. Thank you! The ECM was only getting power to 1/2 of the ECM. Had to be towed to Cummins shop, to determine power source issue to ECM, most likely a relay. Could not work in the ECM relay area because of location adjacent to high speed traffic.
My Learning Curve would be to purchase 2 / $30.00 relays, and start removing /replacing them until the problem resolved. The ECM DOES NOT have power if the Wait to Start light is not illuminated . There are 2 other Red Warning lights which also will not illuminate if the ECM does Not have power. When the bad Relay is found and replaced... the Wait to Start will illuminate, as will the other 2 Red warning lights.
OR ... check relays with multi meter. Relays can be tricky... hoping I do Not have a chewed wire from Squirrel or Chipmunk.

[randomledder]

Ecm power should be unswitched power. Usually direct to the batteries with some fuses.

[BTux]

The “Repair” needed... was a non existent ... intermittent ground to the ECM. Replaced the ground wire ringlets , replaced the Wing Nuts with standard nuts and “Torqued” them to a very specific value. Perfection!

[Smitty77]

Originally Posted by BTux

The “Repair” needed... was a non existent ... intermittent ground to the ECM. Replaced the ground wire ringlets , replaced the Wing Nuts with standard nuts and “Torqued” them to a very specific value. Perfection!

"Classic!". And thank you for updating.

I'm a short timer compared to many here! (Though, I think I probably look as old!!!) A yearly maintenance regiment (Paid for, or DIY!) of checking all kinds of 'Ground Connection's' - will bay dividends of less 'chances' of the problems 'On The Road!'....

Go have some fun,
Smitty

[shootist]

Originally Posted by BTux

The “Repair” needed... was a non existent ... intermittent ground to the ECM. Replaced the ground wire ringlets , replaced the Wing Nuts with standard nuts and “Torqued” them to a very specific value. Perfection!

Where was the ground if it was non existent? Did you add a wire? Does it come from the internal wires exiting the EMC?