Messages sorted by:
[ date ]
[ thread ]
[ subject ]
[ author ]
There certainly seems to be a consensus on todays list about NOT using
starting fluid (ether).
We have a CAT D4400 Diesel (slow turning naturally aspirated) aboard the
troller which I've owned for three years. An option on this engine is a
diesel burning pre-heater that warms the intake airflow. The engine does
not have that option installed and both I and the former owner have used
starting fluid (less then a 1 second blast) to do the first (or cold start).
I would guess the engine has been started that way for the past 40 years,
but can confirm only the past 15.
When we spent two summers cruising in SE Alaska I remember a fisherman I met
always starting his DD 4-53 with starting fluid. I have another friend here
that has to use it to start his old two cylinder two cycle British engine.
I've used it for years to start my very old Briggs & Stratton engine on the
lawnmower. I've owned two VW Diesels and have had to use it a few times
when the glow plugs died or glow plug fuse blew.
I've heard all the bad stories about this stuff, but my personal experience
and observation has all been positive. Perhaps I'm lucky :-)
Regards Robby [http://www.selfsteer.com/monitor/covers/MonitorCOV.jpg
F/V Dolores E. (In San Francisco Bay)
http://www.wingo.com/sailing/dolores.jpg
