Kubota KX057-5 Cranks, No Start After Winter Storage
Fault Codes & Symptoms
Engine cranks but does not start Related symptoms: - Engine loses power under load. - Engine stalls intermittently. The machine was parked for the winter. When we went to start it this spring, it cranks over fine but will not fire up.
Confirmed cause: The fuel pickup tube inside the fuel tank was clogged with a gel-like substance, consistent with microbial growth or "algae" from long-term storage. Repair performed: Removed the fuel pickup assembly from the tank. Cleaned the pickup screen and tube thoroughly. Drained, cleaned, and flushed the fuel tank to remove any remaining contaminants. Replaced the primary and secondary fuel filters. Reassembled all components, primed the fuel system, and bled air from the injectors. Verification: The engine started promptly and ran smoothly after the repair. The fuel system was checked for leaks, and none were found. Technician notes: - This issue is common in machines stored for long periods with untreated diesel fuel. - Always check for fuel flow at the simplest point first. Disconnecting the inlet to the primary filter is a quick way to isolate the tank and pickup from the rest of the system. - Using a quality biocide and fuel stabilizer additive before storage can prevent this problem.