Cummins won't start.

[Fireant4040]

'86 Cummins. The motor started like normal and ran about 5 sec before it stalled. After that, wouldn't start. It turns over no problem. I suspect I have air in the line or the fuel pump is out. But I'm very green. Don't know anything about Diesel engines. Or any engine for that matter. Any recommendations?

[jetter]

Check your fuel shut off value. I was doing work once and closed the value and forgot to open it. Engine ran less than a minute and shut down. An hour later I discovered the problem.....much to my embarressment.

[Jeremyvmd]

If the fuel shutoff is not off check out this link for how to bleed the fuel lines of air.

http://www.cruisingworld.com/how/bleed-out-air

[rcwhite]

Most likely something simple - fuel shutoff, solenoid etc.
If you are that green as you say you may want to have someone look it over with you before going into bleeding keeping in mind the air has to get into the system from somewhere either by a leak/leak down, filter change or running out of fuel.

You may also want to consider a course to learn the basics of your engine at some point as well.

[jleonard]

That Cummins should self bleed. Loosen one of the nuts on the fuel lines at the top of the fuel injector. Then turn over. You should see fuel squirting out.
Let us know those results. That is step one.

[Beta Don]

You may also want to consider a course to learn the basics of your engine at some point as well.

Agreed. The old saw says "There are no diesel mechanics at sea" so the prudent sailor should learn the basics just for safety if no other reason

Don

[Jeremyvmd]

You get it back up and running?