cold starting with glow plugs

circus · Apr 1, 2010

Do glow plugs fail if they're on too long. While starting my Isuzu in the winter I'll only engage the glow plugs for 15 seconds intervals. Isn't long enough. What would happen if the glow plugs are engaged for one or two minutes instead?

NCWayne · Apr 1, 2010

As long as they are in the engine and there is something to draw the heat from them, keeping them on for a minute or two shouldn"t be a problem. In fact many newer engines with electronic controls keep the glow plugs or the intake heater on for a period of time even after the engine starts to help the engine in warm up faster thereby reducing emissions.

Anonymous-0 · Apr 1, 2010

If 15 seconds hurts them there is a problem. My old tractor had an old wire loop type that you had to run a minute +/- depending on how cold it was. Got some adapters and put VW GTI plugs in and they start it in 10-30 seconds depending on temp and how long it was setting. If 30 seconds isn't enough for me, I wait a couple seconds (makes me feel good at least) and give it another 10 or so.

Dave

JDemaris · Apr 1, 2010

The question cannot be correctly answered without knowing exactly what glow plugs you are using.

Some model plugs are dual-element, self-regulating, and blow-out proof.

Others are not and will blow out if held on more then 15 seconds. Some with blow out in one second if voltage is too high.

You didn't mention what model Isuzu. The older Isuzus used in Thermoking reefer engines and some skid-steers have several types of glow plugs available. The choice depends on if you use a glow-plug controller or just a manual push-button.

circus · Apr 1, 2010

Mid 80s C240 industrial 4 cyl diesel. Turn key left for glow plugs, right for starter. Glowing element on control panel shows when glow plugs are heating. Note; I just tried 40 seconds and it started right up. Doesn't mean much, it's 60 outside.

Blackhole49 · Apr 1, 2010

When it's cold, my Kubota needs 1 minute+ with no ill effects.

JDemaris · Apr 1, 2010

C240 can use several versions that will blow up if held on too long. Beru makes a version that will not. Seems as long as you watch your indicator, you'll know when to let off.

Delphi HDS274 plug is 11 to 20 amps @ 5 volts or 7 amps @ 10 volts. No built-in protection.

Delhpi HDS249 (in a Thermoking box) is rated at 25 amps @ 10.5 volts. No built in protection.

Thermoking # 44-2922 is a Chinese-made plug. Will have "JKT and PI 42" written on it. No protection. Also sold under Isuzu # 9-82511978

cold starting with glow plugs

circus

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NCWayne

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Anonymous-0

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JDemaris

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circus

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Blackhole49

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JDemaris

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