Tools required for 2.0DTI Plug Change?

**Thom** · 14th December 2010, 17:19

more specifically i'm wondering what size socket i need for the glow plugs to remove them, however having only done this job once on an escort i'd like any advice i can get as it was a pair last time!

I understand vauxhall glow plugs have a knack for snapping so i'll use a generous amount of plus gas before getting them out and warm the engine, and i'll copper grease the new ones.

Cheers

Thom

**bobssignum** · 14th December 2010, 18:26

Tooling wise i used 10mm long reach socket a foot long extension bar and a ratchet , for the ratchet i used the smallest one i had so as not to put to excessive load on the g p
also best to remove the engine cover and turbo return pipe on top of manifold .
In addition its best to warm the engine up as well before starting,

note you can only use the extension bar on three of the g p,s the fourth one under the turbo pipe can be done just by going direct with socket and ratchet.

**Thom** · 14th December 2010, 18:28

cheers mate, so a deep 10mm socket and extension bar - got it.

Sounds straight forward, touch wood!

**Dazzy2006** · 14th December 2010, 18:31

as above 10mm socket - i would use the plusgas for a few days beforehand and on the day your going to change the glowplugs get the engine HOT.

If they wont budge leave them as i snapped 1 last week and to get it fixed is going to cost £750

**ladyvec** · 14th December 2010, 19:13

Im having a problem with mine at the minute, 3 are changed, I just need to get a knuckle (I think!?) for the last one as we cant get to it.

**Dazzy2006** · 14th December 2010, 19:50

Originally Posted by ladyvec

Im having a problem with mine at the minute, 3 are changed, I just need to get a knuckle (I think!?) for the last one as we cant get to it.

If its the plug under the turbo intercooler pipe - its easier to undo the pipe and move it out the way

**James24** · 14th December 2010, 19:56

Originally Posted by Dazzy2006

If its the plug under the turbo intercooler pipe - its easier to undo the pipe and move it out the way

That's what I did. Also taking off the heatshield over the turbo (3 bolts) gives you quite a bit more room as does loosening the plastic cable guide that the glowplug cables come out of (remove the bolts and it can move about quite a bit).

As above though, the main tools you need are preparation, care, and patience.

**ladyvec** · 14th December 2010, 20:16

Yeah, we moved the intercooler pipe (I say we, I mean my Dad) but the tool he had wouldnt reach, he said it needs an extension or a knuckle or something (my knowledge of these things is as minimal as anything)