Glow Plug: Description and Operation

CAUTION: The glow plug system is a 7 volt system. The glow plugs DO NOT tolerate any over voltage. DO NOT test the glow plugs with a 12V jumper as damage will occur to the glow plug.

NOTE: Glow plugs are very sensitive concerning impact load and bending. Any glow plugs that are dropped or have fallen must be discarded despite testing and no damage being visible.

GSK3 - Glow Plug:

Glow plugs are used to help start a cold or cool engine. The glow plugs will heat up and glow to heat the combustion chamber of each cylinder. An individual glow plug is used for each cylinder. Each glow plug is threaded into the left side of the cylinder head below the cylinder head cover/intake manifold.

CAUTION: The glow plug system is a 7 volt system. DO NOT test the glow plugs with a 12 V jumper as damage will occur to the glow plug(s).

The ECM monitors various engine sensors. When the ignition key is turned to the ON position, the ECM sends a signal to the glow plug module to turn on, and cycle, the glow plugs for a pre-determined amount of time, plus illuminate the glow plug light in the instrument panel. Once activated, the element inside of the ceramic core of the glow plug begins to glow. Each glow plug draws approximately 5 amps, for a total system amperage of 20 amps at 72° F ambient temperature. If there is a fault with the glow plug system, the ECM will store a fault code.