When do you start with glow plug?

[frank_f15]

Thats a bout the same way i do it, unless i had just shut it down.

 

[thcri]

Even if I just shut it down I will hit them for a few seconds. It just can't hurt and will give you better starts.

murph

 

[demote]

Murph,
Interesting that the glow plugs continue heating even after the light goes out. I wonder if this is consistent with most brands? I generally wait for the light to go out but I'm going to time it next time. Danny

 

[beenthere]

Interesting comments all.

Even when I don't use the glow-plug warmup (mine is manual initiation by pushing forward on the key) my tractor engine always starts on the first spin. Never have I turned it over for 'seconds' without having it start. But it is still pretty new at 6 yrs old. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[bartonkj]

My VW's say when it is 40F or lower. I think the diesel pickup trucks are also about 40F. That's what I use with the tractor and it works well. I have no problem starting without the glow plugs when it's warm out. When it is down to the teens or so I double cycle the glow plugs and that works pretty well too.

 

[Roscoe]

Re the comment on the glow plugs continuing to work after the light goes out. On most Japanese built diesels in this country that are fitted to light vehicles, once the plugs have been activated, they get 12 volts to start with, once the light goes out , the voltage drops to 10 for a longer period then down to 8 I think for the final period. this happens automaticly and is designed assist combustion after the engine has started until the engine has warmed up a bit.

This may be the case in some tractors that you are refering too.

cheers
roscoe

 

[NIXON]

I rarely use the plugs . Generally it's kept in a heated garage . If not, It's plugged in on a timer . So far It's been put the key in and start it . but to be fair the coldest temps it's seen are around minus 4 f , John

 

[dennisthomas]

i always crank the engine for a few seconds when its cold outside and then turn on the glow plugs. this warms up the little bit of fuel in the cylinders making for a much easier start.

 

[Andy_H]

the glow plug(s) preheat the air entering the cylinder to help the combustion process and aid in easier starts. My question is why make a hard start for your engine? I always use the glow plugs on a cold start (first start of the day). Curious what your manual says for cold start procedure?

 

[MMM]

My Case doesn't have or need them to 20degF (arctic by LA standards), my Kubota won't start without glow plugs no matter the temperature. Maybe a compression ratio thing?