stunthanger.com
Engine basics => Engine set up tips => Topic started by: Dennis Toth on July 03, 2017, 06:43:30 PM
-
Is there any tell tale signs that a glow plug is starting to go bad? Most know that if the rpm drops when you remove the starting battery but there are times that plugs just seem to quit, will start the engine but as soon as it goes inverted or coming out of the wingover just shuts off. Any signs to look for?
Best, DennisT
-
Those could be symptoms of other problems also. If a new plug cures it, then look at the old one carefully with a magnifying glass. The element can get distorted and change shape, and that affects the run. If the wire touches the side of the chamber, it shorts out and G force can do that. There is the phenomenon of "taters" growing on the element. I run idle bar plugs because that give carbon a place to attach itself before it gets into the chamber. I have seen glow plugs with so much carbon on the idle bar that you can hardly see the element! To get an idea of what to look for, just start regularly checking your glow plug under a glass. It will all unfold right before your eyes. I tell people that plugs aren't an exact science. They may last one run, one week, one month or one year. Just try and stick with one or two known good brands that you have consistent good luck with. Thunderbolts aren't around anymore, but my firstchoice has always been Glow devil R/C longs.
Type at you later,
Dan McEntee
-
If I find a glow plug in my possession, it's at the end of its life.
-
Rossi, Fox and Fireball glowplugs are at the end of their life cycle, when still new in the pack. y1 Steve
-
Dang, Glo-Plugs certainly got expensive, many of us can remember getting a card with 25 Fox plugs for around $25