91 7.3 Bank Turbo - glow plugs clicking on and off

[davlun]

So, while researching another issue, think I may have found out via a youtube video that I have a bad glow plug, but wanted to run it by you guys first. This is my first diesel so I am still discovering things, so if I say something dumb, let me know and I will learn for next time.

When the glow plugs starts its cycle, the light is on and everything seems ok. Then near the end, it clicks on and off several times. I think I get about 18-20 seconds into it before this happens. Now the youtube video was showing one that was not starting at all, they changed all but one that they were having issues getting out, and it sounded like mine. I am in Calif so it does not get real cold here, but it always starts up easy.

1) Is it likely that I have at least one glow plug out?

2) I found quite a few things on people modifying/bypassing the circuit to a push button, thermostat, you name it. All were designed to extend life, etc. Do I need to do something like this?

Thanks,

David

 

[USNENFTS]

It's normal for the relay to open and close after the cycle has completed. The question is, does it stop? Mine stops after about 30 or so clicks, but I had mine improperly grounded at the time so.... Everyone's glowplug system acts different they're kinda weird.

 

[Agnem]

What you describe is normal. You will know when you have one or more burned out glow plugs, by when the wait to start light comes on for only a second or two, and then the clicking is really fast.

 

[Hydro-idi]

Sounds normal to me. The controller will "cycle" glowplugs by clicking them on and off for a few seconds to ensure all cylinders are firing during a cold startup. This also prevents excessive glowplug heat I have been told, and keeps them from burning up.

 

[davlun]

Thanks for the help guys. So did I read it right that the shorter the cycle before clicking the more glow plugs are bad?

 

[LCAM-01XA]

Or just the warmer the air around you. The controller shortens the main glow cycle in warm weather. Steady somewhat-long glow is good, mad clicking and flashing the wait to start light is a sign of dead plugs.

 

[davlun]

Thanks again. Wanted to make sure I headed off something before it became a problem, still learning about things on diesels (and mechanics).

David