[Public-list] Why , oh, why won't my glow plugs glow?

[Randy Katz]

Greetings,
    Having difficulties starting the M3-20B Universal diesel.  It seems the
glow plugs aren't glowing hot enough. Any one else have this experience?

        WHAT I KNOW
    Glow plugs work fine as tested directly jumped on the batt. (The
standard way to test them say the mechanics.)
    Instead of the usual immediate start after 10-15 seconds of glow plugs,
I have to hold them on for about  40 sec.  Then it'll start with some black
smoke after a couple secs.
    
    Solenoid makes the usual click.  I understand, though, that sometimes it
can click but not connect fullly.  I guess this must be the probllem, and,
at $25 for a new one, it's not a costly fix.

    ASSUMPTION
    The glow plugs aren't getting hot enough.  Engine runs fine once it's
going.  Restarts instantly when warm.  Filters are new and work fine.
Plenty of fuel.

    THE FIX?
    New solenoid?  Or, so I'm hoping.

    Please let me know if you have other ideas about this!
Best,
Randy
#249
Seattle,Bellingham

    

 1127777094.0