Importance

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Abstract

A cold start control apparatus for diesel engines includes a cold start switch, engine temperature and speed sensors and a transistor all connected to a programmable controller. The transistor is connected in a series circuit with a cold start relay and the series circuit is connected to the run/crank positions of an ignition switch. The relay has a pair of contacts through which a battery voltage may be applied to a cold start assist apparatus provided for the engine. The cold start assist apparatus may be a thermostart element such as a glow plug ignitor, or a solenoid controlled ether injection system. A permanent memory in the controller stores an indication of the type of cold start assist apparatus provided for the engine. The controller senses for actuation of the cold start switch and applies a signal to the transistor thus turning it on if (1) the ignition key is in the run or crank position, (2) the engine is cold and (3) the cold start assist apparatus is a thermostart element. On the other hand if the cold start assist apparatus is an ether injection system, the controller responds to actuation of the cold start switch to apply a signal to the transistor only if (1) the engine is cold, (2) the ignition switch is in the crank position and (3) the engine speed is at least as great as a predetermined speed. While the transistor is on, voltage is applied to the cold start assist apparatus.

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First Claim