Have you ever gotten stuck on the side of the road with a dead battery? If yes, then you know a jump starter is a must-have tool in your mechanical backpack. The type of jump starter you use depends on your engine type. If your vehicle has a diesel engine, you need to buy the best jump starter for diesel engines. This tool enables you to be self-reliant on the road, saving you from waiting at the roadside for assistance.
A diesel jump starter is a portable tool you use to provide power and restart your engine when the vehicle battery fails to function properly. The jump starter lets you start your engine yourself. You can also help other stranded motorists on the road by jumping their diesel-operated vehicles. The process of purchasing the best jump starter for diesel can be baffling. We shall make this journey less stressful by guiding you on the best portable jump starters for diesel and exactly what to look for when buying.
Our Top 3 Jump Starters for Diesel and Heavy-Duty Vehicles
The Best Jump Starter for Diesel
1. NOCO Boost HD GB150 Portable Lithium Car Battery Jump Starter
NOCO Boost HD GB150 is one of the best lithium-ion jump starters for diesel vehicles on the market. It is the most advanced portable jump starter from NOCO. It has a high-lithium technology, which makes it safe to use in any climate. It is covered with a rugged, water-resistant, IP65-rated casing. Its overmolded, rubberized casing prevents this car battery jump starter from getting marred or scratched.
NOCO GB150 jump starter is lightweight and ultra-compact, weighing 7.5 pounds. It allows fast charging in around 2 hours through the car’s auxiliary port. The jump starter features a mistake-proof design with reverse polarity protection and spark-proof technology. This makes it quite simple and safe to use without worrying about sparks and incorrect connections.
NOCO Boost HD GB150 lithium battery jump starter is multi-functional. It can be used as a 12 V portable power bank, LED flashlight, or car jump starter. You can use this device to recharge tablets, smartphones, and other USB devices. You can easily recharge this jump starter battery using any USB-powered port.
This NOCO jump starter has a built-in 500-lumen LED flashlight with 7 light modes, including SOS and emergency strobe. The NOCO Boost HD GB150 400-amp portable jump starter will start your dead battery in seconds. It is ideal to use in diesel and gasoline engines of up to 10 liters.
Another outstanding feature of the NOCO Boost HD GB150 jump starter is its 12-volt, 15-amp output port, which you can use to power 12VDC devices such as inverters and tire inflators. This jump starter package also includes a Micro USB charging cable, an XGC cable, XGC male and female connectors, heavy-duty battery clamps, a user guide, and a microfiber storage bag.
- Starts a dead battery in seconds
- Made with a mistake-proof design
- It is multi-functional
- Has an inbuilt 500 lumen LED flashlight
- Have 7 light modes
- Lightweight and ultra-compact
- Easy and safe to use
- Work with all USB devices
- Battery dries out fast
2. NOCO Boost HD GB70 UltraSafe Lithium Car Battery Jump Starter
NOCO Boost HD GB70 is among the best lithium jump starters for novices, thanks to its easy-to-use design. This jump starter will help you start your car with a dead battery in no time. Like other NOCO jump starters, it features a mistake-proof design. Therefore, you can connect to any 12V automotive vehicle without worrying about sparks or incorrect connections.
Another great thing about this NOCO Boost HD GB70 jump starter is its multi-functionality. This jump starter can also work as a 12-volt portable power, LED flashlight, and portable power bank. You can charge the jump starter from any USB port for 6 hours at 2.1 amps. It features an integrated 400-lumen flashlight with 7 light modes, including SOS and emergency strobes. The The
NOCO Boost HD GB70 car battery jump starter has a 12-volt, 15-amp output port for powering 12V DC devices such as inverters and inflators. It is designed with high lithium technology, making the jump starter safe to use in all climates. It is enclosed in a water-resistant and rugged material rated IP65. This jump starter is compact and lightweight, weighing 5 pounds.
This high-quality jump starter is made in the USA. The package comes with a user guide, micro USB charging cable, needle nose battery, XGC cable, XGC female and male connectors, and microfiber storage bags. The case is rubberized and overmolded to prevent surface marring and scratching.
- Start dead batteries in seconds
- It is ultra-safe to use
- Can be used in any climate
- It is multi-purpose
- Has a 400-lumen LED flashlight
- Compact and lightweight
- Does not come with an AC charger
3. TrekPow TJ2500 Car Battery Jump Starter
TrekPow TJ2500 is one of the most advanced car battery jump starters for 9 L gasoline and 8 L diesel engines. This advanced car battery jump starter has a peak current of 2500A, allowing it to start 12V cars in seconds. It has a battery capacity of 18000 mAh, which provides multiple starts on a single charge. The jump starter is ideal for several cars, motorboats, motor homes, snowmobiles, lawnmowers, yachts, motorcycles, and trucks.
This best jump starter for diesel features multi-layer protection, making it more durable. It features over-temperature, reverse-charge, short-circuit, over-current, and anti-spark protection. It is also fire-resistant, waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof. It features an IP68-rated waterproof enclosure, enabling you to jump-start your vehicle even in snowy and rainy conditions. Its compact design and rugged, shockproof enclosure allow you to carry it in your vehicle as an emergency backup.
This car battery jump starter features dual QC 3.0 fast-charging ports. This port enables you to charge two devices simultaneously. The jump starter can also act as a power bank for charging electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones. It also comes with a 5V 2A wall charger, so you will not have to spend extra to buy one.
This jump starter is also equipped with an ultra-bright LED flashlight with three modes: SOS, strobe, and normal. The multifunctional flashlights provide you with illumination when working in poorly lit areas. It works on a wide range of operating temperatures ranging from -4°F to 149°F, providing a safe start for your vehicle in all climates.
- Starts 12V vehicles in seconds
- Has multi-layer protection
- Provides multiple starts for a single charge
- Dual quick charge 3.0 USB ports
- Has an ultra-bright LED flashlight
- Waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof
- Safe to use in all climates
- It has a fire-resistant shell
- Does not have a cigarette socket
- It has a 30 seconds timeout
4. GOOLOO Upgraded 2000A Car Jump Starter
GOOLOO Upgraded 2000A is a reliable and powerful jump starter ideal for 7L diesel and 9L gas engines. This jump starter provides instant current without requiring a donor vehicle. It is ideal for jump-starting vehicles, oil boats, snowmobiles, ATVs, cargo vans, mowers, light-duty trucks, diesel semi-trucks, tractors, RVs, motorcycles, and yachts in just a few minutes.
GOOLOO Upgraded 2000A car battery jump starter delivers 15W and features Type-C input and output. It, therefore, supports all devices with Type-C charging. This jump starter has a quick charging output. You can use its 3.0 USB ports to quickly charge USB-powered devices like Kindles, cameras, GPS devices, tablets, and smartphones.
This GOOLOO Upgraded jump starter features advanced safety technology, making it ultra-safe for all users. It features an intelligent jumper clamp with 8 protection features, including overcharge, overvoltage, overcurrent, and overload protection.
GOOLOO Upgraded 2000A jump starter also features a bright LED work light. The LED light has three modes: SOS, strobe, and flashlight. The package includes this heavy-duty jump starter, user manual, USB-C cable, wall charger, Type-C to Type-C cable, 12V battery clamp, and a storage case.
- Made with advanced safety technology
- Also works as a power bank
- Has an ultra-bright LED work light
- It is compact and portable
- Labels are misguided sometimes
5. GOOLOO 4000A Peak SuperSafe Car Jump Starter
GOOLOO 4000A Peak is a super-safe and reliable jump starter that offers users maximum power. This jump starter has a 400A peak current. You can use it to start 10.0 L vehicles and any gasoline engine within a few minutes. It is an ideal jump starter for yachting, cargo vans, oil boats, vehicles, motorcycles, mowers, snowmobiles, and ATVs.The
GOOLOO 4000A Peak SuperSafe jump starter comes with a high-capacity, portable charger. It has two USB charging ports. This device can be used anywhere, even to charge smartphones, Bluetooth headphones, camcorders, GPS, Cameras, and tablets. It is equipped with USB Type-C input and output, enabling it to support Type-C charging.
Another outstanding feature of this best jump starter for large engines is its ruggedness and superior security. The jump starter cables are all made of metal clamps to prevent them from breaking over time. GOOLOO 4000A Peak SuperSafe jump starter features 8 protections, including overload, overcurrent, overcharge, and overvoltage protection.
The GOOLOO 4000A Peak SuperSafe jump starter comes with a type-C to type-C cable, a 12V battery clamp, a USB-C cable, a type-C wall charger, a user manual, and a storage case. This jump starter also features a bright LED with three light modes. The light modes are SOS, Strobe, and Flashlight.
- Have three light modes
- Has Type-C in/out
- Clamps are made of metal
- Safe for anyone to use
- It is multi-purpose
- Powerful and reliable
- Portable and high-capacity charger
- Cables are a bit short
6. Jumtop N12 QDSP 2500A Portable Car Jump Starter
Jumtop N12 QDSP is a high-quality portable car battery jump starter that combines multiple technologies. It has an amperage of 2500, making it easy to charge a dead battery in a few seconds. This appliance can charge a wide range of electrical devices, including tractors, motorcycles, RVs, boats, and trucks.
Jumtop N12 QDSP 2500A portable battery jump starter is rated for 6.5 L diesel engines or 8 L gas engines. The N12 intelligent protection clamps protect the jump starter from overvoltage, overcurrent, over-discharge, overcharge, over-temperature, and short-circuiting. Therefore, you can connect the jump starter to any 12V automotive battery without worrying about sparks or wrong connections.
The Jumtop N12 car battery jump starter features an LED flashlight with 3 modes. The light modes are strobe, SOS, and flashlight. The LED lights make it easier to use the jump starter in darkness or poorly lit areas. This Jumtop jump starter has dual USB ports that let you charge your cameras, tablets, cellphones, and laptops, among other devices.
The dual USB ports on the Jumtop N12 jump starter allow you to charge two devices simultaneously. The jump starter comes with a user manual, a Type-C USB cable, a cigarette lighter, intelligent jumper clamps, and a portable semi-hard case for storage. This is among the best jump starters for newbies due to its high safety features. The reverse polarity protects you from electric shock if you install it backward.
- Jump-starts batteries in seconds
- Extra security on jumper clips
- Has an LED light with 3 modes
- It can work as a power bank
- Compatible with several devices
- Has a reverse polarity
- Does not come with a 5V charger
7. BEATIT QDSP 2200Amp Car Jump Starter
BEATIT QDSP 2200Amp car battery jump starter is convenient for jump-starting 5.5L diesel and 7.2L gasoline engines. This compact jump starter is suitable for motorcycles, cars, and heavy-duty automobiles such as yachts, snowmobiles, ATVs, and trucks. It has a peak current of 2200 amps and can jump-start flat batteries up to 30 times in 1 to 3 seconds.
BEATIT QDSP 2200Amp jump starter is ideal for all 12-volt batteries. It also works as a power bank, offering 12000 mAh. It features dual USB (5V/3A) and 12V/10A DC outputs. This jump starter provides the fastest possible charging for Galaxy S8, iPhone 8, and other devices.
One great feature of the BEATIT QDSP jump starter is that it uses an advanced lithium-ion chip and Quick Discharge Start Power (QDSP) technology. This feature gives the jump starter the strength to withstand extreme temperatures and various environments. This BEATIT jump starter is 3X stronger and more reliable than other products with the same specifications.
BEATIT 12V jump starter features intelligent jumper cables. These cables are designed to be spark- and mistake-proof, preventing short circuits for quick, safe operation. Their cables have been extended from 10 inches to 15 inches, making them convenient for most operations.
This jump starter also has a 100W, 110V AC converter, enabling it to power small appliances such as lamps and TVs. BEATIT QDSP jump starter comes along with a cigarette lighter cable, wall charger, jumper cables, user manual, and a high-quality EVA carry case.
- It is super powerful
- Ability to endure extreme temperatures
- Has an AC outlet power bank
- Dual ports for recharging USB devices
- Has reverse polarity protection
- It is spark-proof
- It may falter after one or two uses
8. TACKLIFE T8 800A Car Jump Starter
TACKLIFE T8 is a compact yet very powerful jump starter. It has a peak current of 800 amps and can jump-start any 12V van, truck, SUV, or cart up to 30 times. Fully charging the jump starter takes around 4.5 hours. It also works as a power bank with a capacity of 18000mAh.
TACKLIFE T8 800A jump starter features dual USB ports. One of the ports supports 5V/9V quick charge, and you can use it to charge your phone. The other one is a 12V10A DC port, which you can use to power your car accessories. This T8 jump starter features a bold, easy-to-handle design. It has an indicator with flashing lights and an audible buzz, which notifies you when you use the starter incorrectly.
One thing that makes the T8 stand out is its long-lasting standby time. Unlike other jump starters, you can turn the TACKLIFE T8 manually. This slows down the battery’s self-discharge, enabling it to hold its charge when not in use for as long as 12 months. When you start charging again, remember to turn it on; otherwise, it will not charge.
In addition to the battery charger, the TACKLIFE T8 features bright LEDs that you can use as emergency lights. In case of an accident, you can use the red light as a hazard warning signal. It also has an SOS signal, a strobe light, and an inbuilt compass. The remaining power is displayed clearly on the jump starter’s digital LCD screen.
The jump starters are made of metal for maximum durability. They also feature an ergonomic design, making them easy to open. Other accessories that come with the TACKLIFE T8 jump starter include a cigarette lighter socket adapter, a USB cable, a car charger, a wall charger, smart jumper cables, and an EVA carrying case.
- Bold and easy to handle
- Has an indicator to notify of incorrect use
- Feature super bright LEDs
- Han has an inbuilt compass
- Long-lasting standby time
- Compact and very powerful
- Dual USB ports
- Instructions are not clear
Things to Consider Before Buying a Jump Starter for Diesel
It is important to know which specific features to look for when buying the best diesel jump starter. Different jump starters on the market have different features and are meant to fulfill different needs. This is the guide on how to choose a jump starter:
Type of Jump Starter
Jump starters come in different types, each with different features. They can be portable jump starters, battery jump starters, or jumper cables. It is recommended to buy a portable jump starter for diesel since it is easy to use, safe, and affordable. If you are using a diesel engine, you need to be very careful to select a jump starter that is compatible with diesel. You can buy a jump starter that serves both gasoline and diesel engines.
Power
Another major factor to consider in a diesel jump starter is its power output. High power ratings are expressed in amperes. This shows the maximum power the jump starter can discharge. You can consider buying one with higher amperage since it will produce more power.
Voltage
In addition to the amperage, you need to check the voltage. Most vehicles use 12V batteries, while heavy-duty automobiles use 24V batteries. Ensure that the jump starter has the ideal current rating to revive your dead battery. It is advisable to buy a battery with a high voltage rating if you find yourself in a situation where more current is flowing in than expected. The jump starter will not fuse in such a situation if it has a high voltage.
Size
Jumpstarters are of different sizes. The dimensions of the device can be deceiving and might not be proportional to its power. Some of the most high-powered and efficient jump starters are compact and easily portable. Consider a lightweight jump starter that is easy to carry and store but also durable.
Length of the Cable
The ideal cable length will depend on your preference. It will depend on where you like to place your jump starter when using it. Those who install them in engine bays may be okay with shorter cables, but those who install them on the road surface will need longer cables to reach the vehicle’s battery. Some of the best diesel engine jump starters have 12-gauge cables.
Gauge
Be very careful when selecting the jump starter’s gauge. You can get a jump starter with high amperage, but a thin wire increases resistance to the current flowing in, resulting in a lower output and overheating. Therefore, jump starters with thicker wires tend to provide more efficient power outcomes.
Jump starters come in different gauges ranging from 6-Gauge, 8-Gauge, 10-Gauge, and so on. The lower the gauge number of the jump starter, the thicker the wire. Therefore, consider jump starters with low gauge levels. Jumpstarters with low gauges tend to be more expensive but are more efficient.
Safety
Safety is a vital consideration, especially if you are new to automotive stuff and have never used a jump starter before. The best jump starters reviewed above have safety systems that protect the user even if a wrong connection is made. Buy jump starters with back-feed protection, anti-spark technology, short circuit, overcharge protection, and reverse polarity.
Benefits of Using a Portable Jump Starter
A portable jump starter is something that every driver should have. It will save you from the many hassles of looking for another vehicle to jump-start. Here are the reasons you should buy a portable jump starter for diesel engines.
No need for help
Portable jump starters are ideal, for they do not need to be plugged in to work. All you need to do is ensure the device is fully charged whenever you move. With this portable jump starter, you do not have to depend on other people to assist in jump-starting your vehicle, motorcycle, or truck. Relying on other people can be devastating and cost you a lot of time. A portable jump starter makes you completely independent and can start your dead battery in minutes.
Can be Used Anywhere
The best thing about portable car battery jump starters is that you can use them anytime, wherever you are. These jump starters are compact and light, and they don’t need a lot of space in your vehicle. Therefore, anytime your battery dies, all you do is get the jump starter and start your battery.
No Problem with Accessibility
The best portable jump starter can be used on your vehicle, no matter its position. Your vehicle needed to be parked in front of the other vehicle for it to be jump-started in the past. At times, if the cables were short, the vehicles had to be positioned very close together. With a portable jump starter, you can restart your car from the point it died. No need to move your car.
Versatility
Most portable battery jump starters are multi-functional. In addition to jump-starting dead vehicle batteries, they offer additional features for a range of operations. They have USB ports that you can use to charge your electronics, such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, and other vehicle accessories. Most of the jump starters also feature LED lights, which you can use in emergencies and when working in dark places.
No Double Connections
When jump-starting your vehicle with another vehicle using booster cables, you will need to make two connections. The two connections double the probability of failure. Reverse connections can cause sparking, which can damage electronic components in both vehicles. With a portable jump starter, you need to make only one connection. They are also equipped with safety mechanisms that prevent overcharging, overvoltage, and overheating, among other risks.
Affordable
Portable jump starters for diesel engines are more affordable than other types of jump starters. You will get high-quality, powerful models at affordable rates. The benefits you get from these jump starters supersede the cost. This compact, portable device also saves you the money you would have spent on jump-start services.
Safety tips for using a Jump Starter
A jump starter is a very useful device but can be very dangerous, especially if you don’t know how to use it. Improper use of a jump starter can lead to accidents. It is advisable to understand the safety tips before you use a jump starter. If you are not sure how to jump-start a car, call for assistance. Here are the safety tips to observe when jump-starting your vehicle:
- Always ensure that both the vehicle and the jump starter are turned off when connecting them. This helps you to avoid short-circuiting during the connection.
- Wear the necessary protective gear before you begin jump-starting. Protective gloves are a must-have when handling the wires of a jump starter. Gloves will save you in case of a short circuit.
- Make sure your vehicle’s battery is in good condition before connecting it to the jump starter. Ensure that no liquid or substance is leaking from the battery.
- Carefully check the cables and ensure that they are not touching or tangled before you switch them on. Tangled jump-start cables can lead to overloads or short circuits.
- Ensure there are no flammables or explosives nearby when jump-starting. Having any of these substances around may lead to an explosion.
- Ensure the jump starter’s output voltage matches your battery charger’s voltage.
- Always hold the negative and the positive clamps carefully and never allow them to come in contact.
- Never put your face near the car battery when jump-starting
There are several safety measures to check when using a jump starter, and the above are just a few. Always check your vehicle’s manual to see if the vehicle manufacturer allows jump-starting. Some vehicles, though, rarely have a positive ground; thus, their jump-starting process is different. Following the safety tips for this equipment will make it more durable and maintenance-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Many Amps Does It Take To Jumpstart a Diesel Truck?
Most of the industrial machines and big vehicles, like tractors, use diesel engines. You, therefore, need to have a very powerful jump starter with high AMPs of more than 1000 AMPs. Consumer vehicles with engines will need a jump starter rated for at least 400 amps. Very small vehicles can be jump-started with as little as 150 amps.
How Do You Jump-start a Diesel Starter?
Jump-starting your vehicle with a portable jump starter is very simple. Before jump-starting, both the jump starter and the vehicle should be off. When using a portable diesel jump starter, follow these 3 steps:
- Put the jumper cable in the booster
- Connect the jump starter’s clamps to the car battery
- Start the vehicle engine
- Remove the clamps carefully and store them for the next use
Remember that the portable jump starter needs to be charged to perform its duty when you need it.
When Should I Plug In My Diesel Truck?
The temperature at which to plug in the engine block varies. You should plug in the engine block heater for safety purposes when the temperatures are -15 Degrees Celsius or below. When using a diesel truck, plug in the engine block before temperatures decrease.
Why does Diesel have 2 Batteries?
Some diesel trucks have two batteries. The two batteries provide the vehicle with more power to overcome the diesel engine’s high resistance. The compression ratios in diesel engines are double those of gas engines. It takes more energy and power to start a diesel engine, which is why diesel trucks have two batteries.
Can You Jump-start a 24V with 12V?
No. Every time you jump-start a vehicle, the jump starter’s output voltage should be equal to the voltage of the battery charger. It is therefore not recommended to jump-start a 24V system with a 12V system. This may damage your jump starter and can also lead to other risks and damages.
How Long Do Portable Jump Starters Hold a Charge?
The amount of time a portable jump starter will hold a charge will depend on its type and how well you maintain it. High-capacity jump starters hold a charge for longer. One thing you need to know about jump starters is that they should be charged after every use.
The device delivers its maximum power when it jump-starts a vehicle, so it needs to charge as soon as you get back home to keep it ready for the next use. Some portable jump starters, like the TACKLIFE T8, have a shut-off button that you switch off when the jump starter is not in use. This enables it to hold a charge for up to 12 months.
How Long Does a Jump Starter Last?
How long a jump starter lasts depends on the model, manufacturer, maintenance, and quality, among other things. A good jump starter should last for around six years or more when kept in good condition. Avoid overcharging, overvoltage, and exposure to very high temperatures, as these can reduce their durability. Also, be careful when using jump starters and avoid incorrect connections; they will serve you for a long time.
Final Words
The best jump starter for diesel engines is a real lifesaver. The above guide makes your search for a diesel jump starter easy. Ensure that you purchase the correct size, voltage, gauge, and type to meet your vehicle’s needs. Keep jump starters in proper condition and use them correctly to extend their lifespan. With the above portable jump starters for diesel, you will not need to wait for help when your battery dies in the middle of the road. It will help you power your battery anytime, anywhere, irrespective of its parking position.
