OK, long story short-my truck wouldn't start several days ago, just made clicking noises from the starter. So cleaned the terminals on main battery (passenger side). It started. Next day same thing, but just wiggled the cables, it started. 2 days ago it wouldn't start (after starting no problem several times already). Jumped it with cables and had to push down on positive post. Noticed it is cracked around the base...so my question is - can this be temporarily fixed with something like JB Weld, as least for a few days? The battery shows a good charge (I tested it just in case). I know, my ignorance is showing, but my husband passed away and I know next to nothing about my wonderful truck! He was a diesel mechanic! All help and suggestions very much appreciated! BTW-I'm new here, but have read tons of your posts already

 

no i would not recommend doing anything like that. batteries can be funny. i would just repalace both batteries and see what happens. it may have a glow plug or a glow plug relay issue since its cold.

 

Thank you ralphie250 for replying! My son in TN also told me the same thing today So I went out and bought 2 new ones, just haven't gotten them put back in - too cold out and got dark too early! Will let you know what happens-hopefully not a glow plug issue! My "wait to start" light glows dimly even after starting, I've heard this is a sign of impending glow plug trouble darn it! I really know nothing about glow plugs!!!

 

If you need to replace the glow plug(s), do all of them. Rockauto.com has OEM for $10.33 ea., ACDelco for $10.04 ea. and Autolight for $7.20 ea. A Dealer will charge $21.25-25.00 ea. Sometimes more depending on how greedy the Dealership is.

 

Thank you for your help! My beast fires right up now like a new truck BUT - that "wait to start" light is still glowing dimly even while running...is that a sign of impending doom for the glow plugs? Also, off topic here, but what type of oil should I be using? The oil cap says 5/20, but everybody says Dello 10/40. Also off topic, how often should I change the fuel/water separator filter? And what brand of glow plugs and oil is best? Thanks again for all your help and advice!