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Glow Plug System

All engines are equipped with pin-type glow plugs which are connected in parallel. The parallel connection allows glow plugs to operate independently of each other and provides 11 volts to each plug during the preglow process. A dual material heating element which consists of a heating coil and a control coil allows heating process to be 5-7 seconds at 32°F (0°C).

Fig 1: Cylinder Head Cross Section Showing Glow Plug & Injector
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NOTE: This plug is called a "Quick-Preglow" plug and is identified by a brass hexagon. It must not be interchanged with glow plugs used in previous models.

Glow plugs are grounded directly to cylinder head through plug body. Each receives separate power directly from preglow time relay (total initial current draw is approximately 200 amperes).

Preglow time relay is located on left inner fenderwell. The relay is protected by an 80-amp fusible link, mounted on relay cover. The relay contains a temperature sensitive resistor which replaces the coolant temperature sensor used with previous relays.

A safety cut-out in the relay turns off glow plug power 20-35 seconds after glow plug light goes off when no attempt has been made to start engine. This keeps battery drain to a minimum and protects glow plugs.

A switch in the relay is triggered if one or more glow plugs fail. This turns off indicator light and signals a need for repair. The indicator will normally come on for at least one second even if engine is warm.

Fig 2: Glow Plug Relay & Wiring Diagram
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