Table of Contents
Do I need a glow plug timer?
However, a glow plug control module is still essential, as without it controlling your glow plugs, the compression temperature might not be high enough to ensure proper ignition of the injected fuel in a cold diesel engine. This would result in increased exhaust emissions.
How long should a glow plug stay on?
It needs 20 seconds of glow time to start in 60 degree temps. Down close to freezing it needs 60 seconds. And even with that amount it still smokes on startup.
How does a glow plug timer work?
The glow plug control unit uses a glow plug relay to switch the current for the glow plugs on and off. The more glow plugs monitored by a control unit, the higher the current the circuit will need. To reduce the current needed, glow plugs are often distributed across two circuits, with two glow plug relays.
How long do glow plugs need to warm up?
around 15 seconds
Glow plugs take around 15 seconds to warm up. Once the Wait to Start light goes out, try cranking the engine.
Can you overheat glow plugs?
Here is a list of the most common causes of pre-mature glow plug failure: 1. Excess carbon buildup in the pre chambers. This can cause shorting or overheating of the plug leading to tip burn out.
Can you leave glow plugs on too long?
You can damage the glow plugs if you continue to cycle the key several times. The glow plugs can get a carbon build up on them from the normal engine combustion process and when you go to use them they will not heat up enough to help start the engine when it is really cold out.
At what temperature do you need glow plugs?
The combustion chamber heat comes from compression pressure and glow plug heat. It needs to reach at least 450° F / 232° C for ignition to take place. If the glow plugs are faulty, the engine chamber will not reach the required temperatures.
Where is the glow plug timer located?
engine compartment
The glow plug timer is located in the engine compartment. It is usually mounted in an out of the way location, most likely on a firewall or sidewall. If your car is equipped with a relay, it will be located in the main fuse box or close to the engine where it is less likely to get hot.
What is a glow plug relay?
Glow plugs relays are a part of the ignition system in diesel cars. When you turn the key in the ignition, the glow plug control unit analyses input from the ECU to determine the timings and currents required by the plugs in order to start the car.