Felder wrote:
>> My question is, what's the starting procedure using
the "knob," or more properly, does use of the "knob"
contribute to the cutting down of smoke upon startup?

My '83 diesel indeed has what the Owner's Manual
refers to as a 'cold starting aid'. As the name
implies, this device is intended to facilitate an
easier start-up in cold weather, and is operated by a
handle located to the right of the steering column,
just below the ventilation controls. Mine is a small,
round, rubber knob which is pulled out from the dash.
Via a very long cable, this knob essentially advances
the timing of the injection pump.

Quoting from the Owner's Manual: "Before starting
engine at outside temperatures down to -15C (5F), pull
the cold start handle out fully. At lower outside
temperatures, the handle should not be pulled out
until the engine is firing regularly -- the engine
will then usually start better.

"When engine has reached its normal operating
temperature, push the cold start handle in."

I seldom need to use mine, as I find the van usually
starts easily enough in cold temperatures, but when I
do, I push it back in after the engine is warmed-up,
usually after driving a mile or so. As Gnarlodious
suggests, it's probably a good idea to use it anytime
to reduce smoke, an indication of unburned fuel.

Jeffrey Earl
1983 diesel Westfalia "Vanasazi"

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