[Kawtipping]

Would a crank position sensor problem generate timing issues but still allow the engine to run?

I would say no. But not having a big diesel background, I couldn't tell you for sure. In a gas GM car, the crank sensor can fail and the vehicle will stay running without missing a beat. It is when you shut it off that all h3ll breaks loose...or rather doesn't...because the engine will crank and not fire. I suppose you can pull the sensor and make sure there are no cracks or anything else funny, but normally it wouldn't allow the vehicle to just re-fire. I would start with pulling the Edge box too. I have noticed that colder temps and my edge box resulted in more noise...along with the switch to ULSD fuel.