2008 BX 2350 Glow Plugs Indicator Stays on After Starting Engine

[Tinhack]

Sounds like you have to turn the ignitions switch back to ON. My Ford ignition switch is the same way. There's four positions: Off, On, Glow, Start. If you turn the key to Start then just release it, the switch returns to Glow. You have to physically turn the key back one position to On.

 

[Eagle1]

Never had to do that here but makes sense as possible problem.

 

[rScotty]

Thank you all for the very detailed responses. I assume the fuse is easily accessible while the tractor is running? I would like to use the machine but I obviously do not want to damage the engine or drain the battery unnecessarily. I have looked at the manuals and the online free version of the the shop manual. I have not found the relay mentioned, so it leads me to believe that the key is acting as a relay. Hopefully when I pop the fuse box there will be a diagram showing which fuse is for the plugs. I will look for the heavy gauge wire when I get a chance.

If necessary I will have the local Kubota dealership take a look. I would prefer to do this myself if possible and not spend the shop rate.

Does your BX2350 have a 110v plug for a block heater? A block heater was often a dealer installed option on Kubotas as well as other tractors. They are typically installled in the side of the engine block into the water jacket. often taking the place of a freeze plug.

I do not know if a block heater was availble for the BX2350. If there is one, there will be an obvious 110 volt plug on a short cord protruding from the side of the engine block. Generally you use it by plugging that heater in for an hour or two before starting the tractor anytime the temperature is below freezing.

The reason I mention the block heater is because using a block heater is an alternate - and superior - way to start a diesel engine in cold weather. If yours has such, you could just disable the glow plugs at the head and use the block heater instead. Easier than pulling and replacing the glow plug fuse, and accomplishes the same thing....i.e. gives you a working tractor with the engine protected and time to figure out the glow plug problem.

rScotty

 

[rScotty]

Sounds like you have to turn the ignitions switch back to ON. My Ford ignition switch is the same way. There's four positions: Off, On, Glow, Start. If you turn the key to Start then just release it, the switch returns to Glow. You have to physically turn the key back one position to On.

Not doubting your word, but wondering if the Ford switch was designed that way or just getting old.

After all, why would a switch be designed to default to a glow plug position AFTER the engine is started?

That sounds wrong somehow. It makes me wonder if that old Ford switch has gotten some corrosion in it. Those older Japanese ignition switches were right out there in the weather and luckily able to be disassembled and cleaned up. Could that be it?

Anyway, good catch. Maybe that's the problem with the BX, too.

 

[DavidG95]

I really appreciate everyone's input. I was researching block heaters and it appears to be a straight forward install, even with removing the freeze plug as outlined in this post. Forgive my ignorance, but can you elaborate more on "disable the plugs at the head"? Are you referring to disconnecting them so they are not energized?

 

[DavidG95]

https://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/threads/block-heater-install-project-bx2350.89491/

 

[Tinhack]

Mine is an after market switch and so was the one I replaced. I don't know for sure if it's right or not but that's the way it works. My Kenbota Glow position is different. It has a spring loaded position opposite the On and Start position. You have to turn the key to the left and hold it there for Glow. Then you have to turn the key to the right for On and Start.

 

[rScotty]

I really appreciate everyone's input. I was researching block heaters and it appears to be a straight forward install, even with removing the freeze plug as outlined in this post. Forgive my ignorance, but can you elaborate more on "disable the plugs at the head"? Are you referring to disconnecting them so they are not energized?

Yes, disconnecting them. The glow plugs are connected by a conductive copper strip, and the "hot lead" that powers them when the plugs are energized is the connector (2) in the middle. Here are some pictures from different work shop manuals.

Be aware that the water jacket space behind the freeze plugs is limited. So block heaters have to be made to fit. Get one that fits the BX, and think about the consequences if a poor install leaks coolant.....rare, but it does happen.

 

[DavidG95]

Okay. So my plan to start will be to test the voltage and see if the glow plugs are actually being energized. Can anyone tell me what the voltage should read on a multimeter when the glow plugs are in the preheat mode versus what they should read when the tractor is in operation? I assume I should be testing the voltage on the hot lead that you pointed out, number two