Or that the lift pump has a leaky diaphragm - it works good enough at
running rpm to keep the injection pump supplied, but can't get fuel
there at cranking rpm...

If this is the problem, the crankcase oil is probably diluted with
diesel, and the engine shouldn't be run anyway.

bob

wrote:
I'd change the filters, re-prime and retest.

Also it's possible that the injector pump or lift pump has a defective
check valve thats allowing the fuel to drain off and not allow it to be
pumped into the injector pump.

Thanks for the replies. I haven't changed the filters as yet. I'm
planning to get a mechanic to give it a once over asap. I'll check the
cranckcase oil too.

RW Salnick wrote in
:

Or that the lift pump has a leaky diaphragm - it works good enough at
running rpm to keep the injection pump supplied, but can't get fuel
there at cranking rpm...



I agree, too. It's sucking air into the fuel line from "somewhere".
REPLACE all the crappy hoses, don't just cut the end off them, and try it.
Only takes a tiny crack to suck in a tiny air bubble and the injection
timing and fuel delivery just sucks! Check the fuel filter seals, too. It
may be sucking a bubble in around there, too.

Air is the reason it won't run....air in the fuel system.

--
Larry