glow plug system question

[skafunk]

I've got a problem with my glow plug system but i am unsure what it is-
here are the symptoms:
turn key, wait light comes on... stays on longer than usual and then i hear a click from the relay and eventually it goes off. i then attempt to start but engine will not turn... clearly the plugs haven't warmed.
after a few rounds of this, eventually i turn over fine and start (with some smoke) (cold temp- around 35 degrees)
some days however things will work normal on 1st try- wait light will go out, i'll start and she'll turn over without smoke.
does this sound like it's the relay, the glow plug controller card or the temp sensor?
(or maybe the plugs themselves?)

 

[mf5129]

the plugs seem to be the weakest link for me.there are several ways to solve the cold start problems.i remove and check all mine at least yearly.add a heavy duty relay and a manual override doesnt hurt.i have never had to use mine.i had 2 plugs out and when weather was average it started reasonably well.when i replaced the plugs it starts even faster.use never seize compound on the replacments.doesnt hurt to have some spares.

 

[lindyp38]

look up ....doghead...starter relay modification........if u havent done this yet...u should.....

 

[skafunk]

thanks... what would you guys recommend for a replacement glow plug relay? stock from flmv, or something off a newer application?

 

[WARWAG]

The Doghead starter relay modification thread list what relay to use.

 

[skafunk]

oh i know- it lists which relay to use for the starter mod- but what relay should i get to replace my under hood glow plug relay?

 

[ralbelt]

I used a napa st85, some others have used the equivalent from some other sources.

 

[lindyp38]

i also used the napa relay.........replacement was straightfoward and fairly easy......