90 glow plug activation

Hi all,

My first post, just bought a 1990 defender 90. It's ace.

It's a bit slow on start up when cold and smokes a bit too at the same time.

Had an electrical tester on the glow plug circuit.

1) It shows no voltage when ignition switch is at first position (I, idiot lights come on and position is latched), as expected.
2) It shows no voltage when the ignition switch is in the second position (II, you have to hold it in position).
3) It shows voltage in the last position (III, you have to hold it in position, and the starter motor turns). The glow plug idiot light also comes on in this position.
Tried disconnecting the starter relay, turned the ignition switch to position III, warmed the glow plugs. Reconnected the starter relay then started the engine, and it started much sooner.

I've got a suspicion as to what's wrong, but I thought I'd ask the experts before I waste any money.

Cheers Fellas.

Bypass the relay altogether.
Find the glow plug wire from ignition switch position 2, when you get 12v.
Then just manually sit the ignition at position 2 for 5 seconds and start her up.

Thanks for quick response Patman,
I'm not sure I've explained it well enough. The relay I'm talking about is the starter relay for the starter motor. I don't think the glowplug circuit goes through a relay (can't see one anyway).
I think the idea of holding the ignition switch at position II for a few seconds for the glowplugs is the way it's supposed to work. I'm suspicious the switch is duff, but wanted a bit of confirmation from someone who has a bit more knowledge than me before I change it.