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If it isn't broke why change it. It has been doing its job for the last 25 years, might just as well leave as is.
If one or more plugs fail, its most likely one of four things; The plugs are old and are due for replacement, They are of inferior quality, the original glow plug system has been altered or there is a mechanical issue when trying to start the truck (hard starting) weak batteries, fuel leaks and such. When one or two plugs fail you should replace all eight as for the original older plugs will have built up some resistance as compared with the newly installed plugs, over heating the new ones and creating the possibility of burning them out as quickly as you can replace them. The snow ball effect will still happen with the plugs weather you remove the resistor or not. (They are still all 12 volt glow plugs). If the plugs failed prematurely because of a manual glow plug switch, then you are your own warranty. These CUCVs were built rugged and designed well. If properly maintained and not altered, you should have years of dependable service.
Absolutely incorrect.
I apparently did not know the correct definition of "snow ball effect" and I stand corrected for using that term loosely. What I should have said is that the "poor mans effect" will happen when you replace one or two plugs VRS all eight. The original plugs will still have more resistance than the new ones causing more energy to be supplied to the new ones and over heating them causing the new plugs to fail. Weather it be heat build up from longer heating times or it be from more voltage causing more heat that ultimately causes the; hears that term again "snow ball effect" I learned this the hard way back in the 80s with my work trucks. Couldn't understand why I was going through glow plugs, starters and batteries. I was a poor man back then and I would only change one plug or one battery at a time. Not realizing I was just making matters worse and keep on cranking on the starter and jump starting till the starter would burn out. Good batteries good glow plugs good starter makes for quick starting, less ware & tare on the whole system. And yes I believe I do understand the original design to make such a statement. That's my opinion.
