I’ve been researching misfires, but looking for advice on next steps. My 2004 DII with 133k (need to update my signature) is having a cylinder 2 misfire issue. At first I was thinking plug/wire or slipping sleeve/block crack or head gasket. Couple things make me question which way to go. It only happens at start up. Hard start with smoke, then after it reaching operating temp it all goes away.
I changed the plug and wire and everything went away for just one day. Was thinking if it was something catastrophic that the systems would be somewhat constant. Any advice on next steps?

 

Normally I would suggest checking your plugs and wires but you've already replaced them so i'll assume they are good and not the problem.

Since you only have the problem at start up that could point to a leaky fuel injector. The injector might be leaking fuel into the cylinder over night and causing the hard start. Once the excess fuel in the cylinder is burned off the truck runs fine. You can test this theory with a fuel pressure test. Start the truck with the pressure gauge attached and check the PSI reading. Then turn the truck off and watch the gauge for a drop in the PSI. If it drops that would indicate a leak.

 

sound like your fears may be correct, coolant could be getting on the plug overnight when it burns off the engine straighten out.
Check the plug and wires that do have 50K miles on then now.
pressure test your cooling system, have you noticed a drop in coolant?

 

Thanks for the quick responses. It is losing a little coolant so that makes sense. I'll have it pressure tested and cross my fingers. Head gasket no problem ..... hoping for no cracks.

 

I went to go move in into sick bay and the battery was dead. Could this be a symptom of something else or just another unlucky coincidence?