Tips on changing glow plugs

I am going to replace the glow plugs on my 300tdi and wondered if there were any tips on how to do it before I start.
I have read the post in Busters photo guide (thanks Buster, really appreciate your efforts there), but wondered if it was worth doing some prep work first such as warming up the engine first or applying Plusgas for a couple of days.

Only just starting my maintenance "journey" as I want to be able to look after the truck myself as I have to watch the penny's! I really don't want to break a plug in there as I really don't want to have to remove the head to get the broken bit out!!

Thanks for your help.

Mick

All the tdi ones I have replaced have all come out a treat, so a good fitting 6 sided socket and see if they will undo, dont force them, if you think it feels strange stop and let your local garage do it, they are so easy to access it will not cost to much.

Thanks for your reply, it is greatly appreciated!

M

It’s rare that you will get temperature in this country where glow plugs are needed, so unless you are having problems with cold starting minus 5 C or lower it’s probably a waste of money and effort IMO

Last winter when it was getting pretty cold I wanted to start it up every couple of days to get some heat into it. Not having the best battery it would not start so I had to stick it on charge before doing it again. I thought I had issues with fuel supply but then it was ok when the weather warmed up!

I really need to get a new battery but that is on my list. Also for the cost of a set of plugs it is not really an issue cost wise. Also, if changed and I use some copper grease I am hoping future changes won't be an issue.

Had a nightmare with mine.
Had the engine out and on a stand.

Sanpped one off (weeks of soaking in wd40 and stuff),

Machined out,

New glow plug in,
That doesn't feel right.

Ripped the threads clean out.

Picked up another head, from New Castle way on (cheers Dan). And fitted that.

Was using a torque wrench to the spec when doing it. Nothing will prepare you for the feeling of:
'Why did it go loose?'

I wouldn’t have tried to remove them with a cold engine, i would have use a blow torch to locally heat
The head and glow plug before attempting to remove,

Engine really isn't going to be warm after sitting on a garage floor for 2yrs.

Sir Mowhawk said:

Engine really isn't going to be warm after sitting on a garage floor for 2yrs.

Click to expand...

That's what the blowtorch is for ...