Cold Weather Starting Tips
- Use fresh winter grade fuel (87+ Octane)
- Hold the key in the ignition for 10 seconds
- Use engine oil rated for cold temperatures like 5w30 or 10w30
- Spray starting fluid into the carburetor
- Connect the jumper cables properly – positive to positive, negative to negative
- Let the donor car run for 1-2 minutes before trying to start the dead battery
- Squeeze the throttle to rev the cold engine slightly higher than idle
- Shut off accessories like lights and heaters that drain power
- Keep the truck indoors so it stays warm
- Wax crystals can clog the fuel filter
- Use a block heater to warm the coolant and make starting easier
- At 0°F, diesel engines are 5 times harder to start than at 80°F
- Move the stop switch off the stop position
- Allow the engine to idle to circulate oil before driving
- Run the vehicle for 3-5 minutes before driving
Why Cold Engines Are Hard to Start
The reason it is hard to start a cold engine lies in several factors that make it difficult. Cold weather thickens the engine oil, reduces battery power output, and affects fuel vaporization. The cold start injector aids engines in starting in such conditions.
Issues with Small Engines in Cold Weather
Starting small engines in cold weather presents challenges due to thickened oil, reduced battery output, and poor fuel combustion. Maintenance, using winter-grade fuel, and choosing appropriate oils can help improve cold-weather starting. Diesel engines, in particular, require additional measures like glow plugs and block heaters for reliable operation in winter.