bobcat t250 won't winter start

[jab-law]

We just purchased a used bobcat T250 (1500 hours). It started fine when it was warm. However, we got a lot of snow and cold the past few days (finally). So I went to start it this morning to move some drifts out of the drive. It spun and burped but would not start. I tired to take it easy, but could not get it started. Worn down the battery, so I got the tractor and jumper cabled it for a bit. When it spun, it did not even burp -- not even a murmur -- sort of like it is not even getting any fuel. The fuel meter shows about a quarter of a tank, and we ran it pretty good about two weeks ago. Also, the oil is really thick -- and black. (I had thought the dealer changed it before selling it to me -- the ad said "fully serviced") We had a problem starting the tractor a few winters ago -- it would run and then starve for fuel. Something about a wax build-up from the cold weather. So -- do I need to drain the fuel and put in winter diesel, or put in an additive? How about changing the oil??? -- I'm looking at the synthetic Rotella, Any ideas would be really appreciated.

 

[lesgawlik]

What happens when you open the bleed screw on the fuel filter and squeeze the primer bulb?

 

[lesgawlik]

What happens when you open the bleed screw on the fuel filter and squeeze the primer bulb?

Changing oil is never a bad idea. Of course, it's best to do it when the engine is hot, and right now that's a problem. If your engine is tight, you can use 5W-40 Synthetic Diesel Oil. Mine is a little loose, and I went to 15W-40 Synthetic Diesel from Redline. I like using synthetic for any turbo'd engine. The turbo get incredibly hot under load, to the point where the outside casting glows. When you stop the engine, the oil in the turbo bearing cokes up and becomes gritty. If it is not picked up by the oil filter, it can cause internal wear. I give my machine five minutes of foreplay (at idle) and five minutes of cuddling (at idle) after running it hard to give the engine the chance to warm up or cool off before making demands on it, or shutting it off. Diesels can make oil look black and like it has never been changed almost immediately. I just changed my oil last week after after I ran it to test for leaks it was dark.

 

[jab-law]

What happens when you open the bleed screw on the fuel filter and squeeze the primer bulb?

I have not done this -- did not know its an option. Where would the bleed screw and primer bulb be located on the t250? thanks

 

[lesgawlik]

I have not done this -- did not know its an option. Where would the bleed screw and primer bulb be located on the t250? thanks

There should be a screw on the bottom of the fuel filter. There should be a primer bulb in the fuel line. Loosen the screw and squeeze the bulb and see if you get fuel. You can catch the fuel and see if there's water in it.

 

[Bobcatdan]

There should be a screw on the bottom of the fuel filter. There should be a primer bulb in the fuel line. Loosen the screw and squeeze the bulb and see if you get fuel. You can catch the fuel and see if there's water in it.

Sounds like the fuel take is froze up.