I have a 1994 7.3 Turbo IDI and lately the truck is having difficulty starting after sitting a while. It will turn over and sputter a bit before finally starting. Sometimes it takes a while. After the start it puffs smoke for a few seconds then runs spot on with good power and idle. Do I have a leaky fuel injector on one cylinder? Is it the glow plugs? They are asking more to diagnose the problem than the cost of fixing it. New to the site, and appreciate any help you can give.

 

How long does the wait to start light stay on? Are the glow plugs motorcraft? How old are they?

Another potential issue is air intrusion. This is caused by the hoses that run from injector to injector.

 

sounds like time for a new return kit.

 

My vote is glow plugs. Mine did the same thing when I bought it. If the light isn't staying on and the relay makes multiple clicks, it's the plugs for sure.

Mike