Volvo 220E Wheel Loader: Issues with Starting and Troubleshooting

[MikePhua]

The Volvo 220E wheel loader, like many heavy equipment machines, is designed for tough jobs and reliability in various conditions. However, issues with starting, such as requiring ether to get the engine running, are not uncommon. This problem, while not necessarily a sign of an imminent failure, can indicate underlying issues with the machine’s fuel system or other critical components. In this article, we will explore potential causes of this issue, common fixes, and preventive maintenance measures that can help keep your Volvo 220E running smoothly.
Introduction to the Volvo 220E Wheel Loader
The Volvo 220E is part of the company’s E-Series of wheel loaders, which are known for their fuel efficiency, advanced hydraulic systems, and user-friendly features. Volvo has built a solid reputation for manufacturing reliable, powerful construction machinery that excels in lifting, digging, and material handling tasks. The 220E model is equipped with a powerful diesel engine, capable of handling a wide variety of tasks, from road construction to material handling in mines and quarries.
However, like all diesel-powered machinery, the 220E can experience starting problems due to various reasons, especially under cold weather conditions. Ether, often used as a starting aid, can provide the initial boost to get the engine running but should not be relied upon as a permanent solution.
The Role of Ether in Diesel Engine Start-up
Ether is commonly used to aid in starting diesel engines, particularly in cold weather when the engine's fuel may not vaporize properly. Diesel engines rely on compression to ignite fuel, but this process can be slow or ineffective in extremely cold temperatures, leading to hard starts. Ether, often sprayed directly into the air intake, serves as a highly volatile substance that ignites quickly when compressed, providing the initial spark needed to get the engine running.
While ether can be an effective temporary solution, repeated reliance on it can lead to long-term damage, especially to sensitive components like the glow plugs, cylinder heads, and pistons. Therefore, understanding why a machine requires ether to start is crucial in diagnosing and solving the problem.
Common Causes of Starting Issues on the Volvo 220E
When a Volvo 220E wheel loader requires ether to start, it typically points to one or more issues in the engine or fuel system. Here are the most common causes:
1. Fuel System Problems
The fuel system is one of the most common culprits in starting issues. If the fuel injectors or fuel lines are clogged, the engine may not receive enough fuel for proper combustion. Over time, fuel injectors can become fouled with carbon deposits, especially if low-quality fuel is used or if the engine is not properly maintained.
Additionally, air in the fuel lines can prevent proper fuel delivery, leading to difficulty starting the engine. Inspecting and cleaning the fuel injectors, checking the fuel lines for leaks, and ensuring the fuel filter is clean and functioning are critical steps in diagnosing this issue.
2. Weak or Faulty Glow Plugs
Glow plugs are critical components in cold starting. They help heat the air inside the combustion chamber, allowing the engine to start more easily in cold weather. If the glow plugs are worn out or faulty, they may not generate enough heat, causing difficulty in starting the engine.
Testing the glow plugs and replacing any that are not functioning properly can often resolve cold-starting issues. It’s also important to inspect the glow plug relay and ensure that it is working as intended.
3. Battery Issues
A weak or failing battery is another common reason a Volvo 220E may struggle to start without ether. Diesel engines require a significant amount of electrical power to engage the starter motor and initiate the compression process. If the battery is not holding a sufficient charge or if it’s old, it may not be able to provide the necessary power for starting.
Checking the battery's voltage and replacing it if it’s old or weak can solve many starting issues. Additionally, it’s important to inspect the battery cables for corrosion or damage that may impede the flow of electricity.
4. Cold Weather Conditions
Cold weather can have a significant impact on the starting performance of a diesel engine. In freezing temperatures, the viscosity of the engine oil increases, making it more difficult for the engine to turn over. Moreover, fuel can gel at low temperatures, preventing proper fuel flow and combustion.
Using a block heater or other engine preheating methods can help mitigate cold-weather starting problems. Block heaters warm the engine’s coolant, reducing the viscosity of the oil and making it easier for the engine to turn over. Diesel fuel additives can also help prevent gelling in cold conditions.
5. Air Intake or Exhaust Blockages
Blockages in the air intake or exhaust systems can also prevent the engine from starting. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, while a blocked exhaust can cause backpressure, reducing engine efficiency and making it difficult for the engine to start.
Inspecting and cleaning the air filter, as well as ensuring that the exhaust system is free from obstructions, can improve the overall performance of the engine.
Solutions and Troubleshooting
To resolve starting issues on the Volvo 220E, it’s important to perform a systematic diagnosis and address any underlying problems. Here are some steps to take:
1. Inspect the Fuel System

• Check the fuel injectors for blockages or carbon buildup.
  
• Examine the fuel lines for leaks or air pockets.
  
• Replace the fuel filter if it appears clogged or old.
  
• Ensure fuel quality by using clean, high-quality diesel.
  

2. Test and Replace Glow Plugs

• Test the glow plugs to ensure they are heating properly.
  
• Replace faulty glow plugs to restore reliable starting performance.
  

3. Check the Battery

• Test the battery voltage and replace it if it’s below the required level.
  
• Inspect battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections.
  
• Ensure the battery is properly charged, especially in colder climates.
  

4. Prevent Cold Weather Issues

• Use an engine block heater during winter months to prevent cold-start problems.
  
• Add fuel additives to prevent fuel gelling in freezing temperatures.
  
• Ensure proper oil viscosity by using a winter-grade engine oil in colder climates.
  

5. Inspect the Air Intake and Exhaust Systems

• Clean or replace the air filter if it’s clogged.
  
• Check the exhaust system for any blockages that could hinder engine performance.
  

Conclusion
The Volvo 220E wheel loader is a reliable machine when properly maintained, but like all diesel-powered equipment, it can encounter issues, particularly when it comes to starting. If your Volvo 220E requires ether to start, the issue is likely related to the fuel system, glow plugs, battery, or cold weather conditions. By addressing these components systematically, you can restore the machine’s ability to start without relying on starting aids like ether.
Routine maintenance and proactive inspections are the best way to prevent these issues and ensure that your Volvo 220E operates efficiently. With proper care, the Volvo 220E can continue to serve your construction and material handling needs for many years to come.