Dti Glowplugs

[Dazzy2006]

Well looks like its my turn to need glowplugs

Has anyone changed glowplugs on a 2.2dti - whats the best way of getting at them - i took a look earlier and was wondering the best way of changing the 2 near the turbo

Also what brand do you guys recommend? ngk etc or just pick some up from local auto factors.

The main thing i'm worried about is snapping one of so my plan is to spray wd40 on them for a couple of days, then try removing them when the engine is warm and when i fit the new ones copper grease the threads - any hints/tips appreciated.

Cheers guys

[Dazzy2006]

- anyone?

[lesj]

The Vx ones are Bosch.
Vx retail the glow plugs at £12.30 each which isn't to bad.
If you go to Eurocarparts on line they list a Denso glow plug at £13.81....

Whilst WD 40 is better than nothing, try using Plusgas. Its a penetrating oil whilst WD40 is designed as a water dispersant hence WD.
Warm engine is better for removal.
Main thing - ensure you only apply a rotational force to the socket not a lateral one.

Good luck

[macdad]

Use a deep 10mm socket mate,and the two near the Turbo are best removed using a universal type joint adapter,just be a bit cautious and take your time and you should be ok oh and wd 40 fine to aid removal.

[UncleMelon]

Maybe a stupid question but how do you know they need replacing, only reason I ask is that my 2.2dti is struggling to turn over in this ridiculous weather... Do you get any warning lights?

Cheers

[cont1204]

Maybe a stupid question but how do you know they need replacing, only reason I ask is that my 2.2dti is struggling to turn over in this ridiculous weather... Do you get any warning lights?

Cheers

I don't think you get a warning light unless one dies completely and ruins the continuity of the circuit. I think it's pretty much by feel, as far as I know they do wear out. If they take ages to heat up and the car is difficult to start, they may need replacing.

[lesj]

Maybe a stupid question but how do you know they need replacing, only reason I ask is that my 2.2dti is struggling to turn over in this ridiculous weather... Do you get any warning lights?

Cheers

I suspect your problem may be due to either battery on the way, starter motor and would check connections to ensure clean and tight.
Glow plugs just heat the cylinder to assist the diesel burn whilst the engine is cold. So glow plug fault shows with a longer, but at same speed, crank and what sounds/feels like a misfire for a few seconds as the 'cold' cylinder heats up.
Therefore struggling to turn over is more likely to be as previously mentioned.
You can check battery with a voltmeter, best to check first thing anything below 12.5v at this time of year is not good and realistically even the best batteries with the latest electrolytes are only warranted for 5 years. So whilst some batteries soldier on anythin with the older 'technology' thats over 6 years old is doing well.

[UncleMelon]

Nice one for the replies cont1204 & lesj,

From the way you've described a crap glowplug i think that may be my problem...

Its not really like there isnt enough power to turn it over its just taking a few more turns than normal, and i can definately feel what seems to be a very slight misfire after starting from cold. not for long though and its not really something i considered to be a problem until it was mentioned.

Should there be an indication when the glowplugs are heating up properly?

Cheers fellas

Edit: I have checked the battery with a battery and alternator tester and its indicating they're both strong... might aswell check it properly with a multimeter though I s'pose

[cont1204]

Nice one for the replies cont1204 & lesj,

From the way you've described a crap glowplug i think that may be my problem...

Its not really like there isnt enough power to turn it over its just taking a few more turns than normal, and i can definately feel what seems to be a very slight misfire after starting from cold. not for long though and its not really something i considered to be a problem until it was mentioned.

Should there be an indication when the glowplugs are heating up properly?

Cheers fellas

Edit: I have checked the battery with a battery and alternator tester and its indicating they're both strong... might aswell check it properly with a multimeter though I s'pose

No worries. If you've had it checked out and it all points to them being fine I'd go for new glow plugs. Mine coughs and splutters a little bit when it's started but after a few seconds it's cleared and it's fine. Has been de-catted though. Which I do recommend.

[Dazzy2006]

Cheers for all the replies guys - ive decided i'm going to leave it a few days as the car is buried under the snow

Maybe a stupid question but how do you know they need replacing, only reason I ask is that my 2.2dti is struggling to turn over in this ridiculous weather... Do you get any warning lights?

Cheers

Mine turns over fine but takes a couple of extra cranks to start but once started i have the car and spanner symbol for about 30secs then its fine till the next cold start