test deepen

AROUND THE ENGINE

WINTER IS HERE. ARE YOU READY?

Imagine this: your customer is getting ready for a drive in the cold dark winter morning, they turn their key, but nothing happens. They try everything to get it started but in vain. The battery seems fresh enough, fuel is there as well. This is where the real problem begins and they will come to you for a solution. As the temperature drops, many drivers will experience this. The thing is, not all car owners are aware of the role of this small but very important component of a diesel engine. Glow plugs are key to a smooth engine start in cold winter conditions, so the question is, what can you do to prevent frustrating situations like those described above for your customers?

Most common signs that glow plugs need replacing 1. The first and most obvious is right there on the dashboard – the glow plug warning light. It indicates failure. 2. If the warning light doesn’t turn on, you need to look for other signs. This is very common with older engines. Signs like: ■ Increased white smoke from the rear ■ Louder combustion noise ■ Uneven running of the engine ■ Lower power output ■ Increased fuel consumption. You may also find the following tips helpful: ■ You can check the glow plugs with a multimeter. You will find out if there is an open circuit, short circuit, or if the glow plug is in good condition. It is easy to use and you do not have to remove glow plugs. ■ Glow plugs usually reach their wear limit one after another. It costs less if you replace the complete set at once than repeatedly replacing individual defective glow plugs.

Tips on how to remove and install glow plugs:

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Disconnect the battery then take off the engine cover and other components so that you can access glow plugs directly

Disconnect the electrical connector by hand

Remove the glow plug from the cylinder head using a socket wrench. Do it slowly and pay attention to any resistance. Don't try and remove it with force, as you can damage the glow plug. A major mistake that could cost you money, nerves, and time

Clean the hole before installing glow plugs. Use a reamer set. That's a must. You should remove any

Screw the new glow plug in as far as it goes by hand

Set the torque wrench to the correct tightening torque

Place the torque wrench onto the glow plug and tighten it. Insufficient tightening of the glow plug could lead to combustion gas leakage and poor electrical performance. Overtightening the glow plug can cause the glow plug to break

Reconnect the connector to the glow plug

carbon deposits to keep the glow plug from failing prematurely

Tips recommended by Hidria, variances may apply, follow manufacturer specific guides for accuracy