In extremely cold weather below 0°F (-18°C) it may be beneficial to cycle the intake air heater twice before attempting to start the engine. This can be accomplished by turning the ignition off for at least 5 seconds and then back to the ON/RUN position after the Wait To Start Indicator Light has turned off, but before the engine is started. However, excessive cycling of the intake air heater will result in damage to the heater elements or reduced battery voltage.
If multiple pre-heat cycles are used before starting, additional engine run time may be required to maintain battery state of charge at a satisfactory level.
If the engine stalls after the initial start, the ignition must be turned to the OFF position for at least five seconds and then to the ON/RUN position to recycle the intake air heater.
Excessive white smoke and poor engine performance will result if intake air heater is not recycled.
Heat generated by the intake air heater dissipates rapidly in a cold engine. If more than two minutes pass between the time the Wait To Start Indicator Light turns off and the engine is started, recycle the intake air heater by turning the ignition switch to the OFF position for at least five seconds and then back to the ON/RUN position.
If the vehicle is driven and vehicle speed exceeds 19 mph (31 km/h) before the intake air heater post-heat (after start) cycle is complete, the intake air heater will shut off.
If the engine is cranked for more than 10 seconds, the post-heat cycle will turn off.
Engine idle speed will automatically increase to 1,000 RPM and engage the Variable Geometry Turbocharger at low coolant temperatures to improve engine warm-up.
When a diesel engine is allowed to run out of fuel or the fuel gels at low temperatures, air is pulled into the fuel system. If your engine has run out of fuel Priming If The Engine Has Run Out Of Fuel — Diesel Engine.
If the engine stalls, or if the ignition switch is left ON for more than two minutes after the Wait To Start Indicator Light goes out, reset the intake air heater by turning the ignition switch to the OFF position for at least five seconds and then back ON. Repeat steps 1 through 5 of “Starting Procedure – Engine Manifold Air Temperature 0°F to 66°F (-18°C to 19°C)” Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ Starting Procedure — Engine Manifold Air Temperature 0° F To 66° F (–18° C to 19° C).