Sounds like a low cranking speed,
these need to spin over at least at 180 RPM,
though I like to see 200 RPM.
Low cranking speeds mean there is just not enough cylinder compression,
and as diesels ignite the fuel charge by the compressed air temperature it just wont ignite.
Tow starting spins the engine over a lot faster.
So start by adding a GOOD jumper battery to see if it spins over 180 RPM,
if it's still low then check the engine ground/earth cables/mounting points.
then it's suspect the starter motor.
Posted Jun 24, 2015 (9 years ago)