Glow plugs spinning

[DjNeil]

Hi
My 2002 311cdi sprinter is proving difficult when changing the glow plugs.
The plugs undid easily enough but won't come out.When I put a socket on the glow plugs they just spin and spin. Nothing feels sheared but i think turning the nut is not undoing the thread.
Any help would be appreciated
Neil

 

[Ellsy Tanners]

Try just pulling hard with a pair off piliers.

If that don't work try Placing a block of wood over the glow plug, hold it there and get some one to turn the engine over on the key. The compression will push out the glow plug.

 

[meanie]

There is carbon build up on the lower end of the plug.
A flat bladed screwdriver levering against the back of the 'nut' whilst you turn it with a socket will gradually ease it out.
You then need to clean out the glow plug hole.To do this you will need a round parts cleaning brush(try a local engineering supplier)dipped in thinners.Don't be too liberal with the thinners as some of will run down the port.Then,if you can find/have one,chase the threads out with a tap.
Cleaning is important to get a good seal on the glow plug.

 

[DjNeil]

thanks i'll try that
best
DjNeil

 

[Blakey]

turning the nut is not undoing the thread.

Sounds like the hex part has broken away from the rest of the plug, but is still held on by the electrode. The threaded part of the plug is still siezed in.

This happened to me when I changed the glow plugs on my wifes car last night.

You may have an expensive bill to have them removed/replaced :-?

 

[meanie]

Sounds like the hex part has broken away from the rest of the plug, but is still held on by the electrode. The threaded part of the plug is still siezed in.

This happened to me when I changed the glow plugs on my wifes car last night.

You may have an expensive bill to have them removed/replaced :-?

You're so negative!!!!!

 

[ernieh]

Glow

You're so negative!!!!!

He could be right! It's either that or the threads have stripped. Either way its expensive!


Ernie

 

[exeng]

If it has snapped you will be able to tell by the height of the plug in the counter bore if it has not come any heigher it is either snapped or stripped but hopefully not but if the worst has happened it can be done without removing the head so not that expensive

 

[television]

Removing CDI glow plugs is featured in this months Professional Motor Mechanic monthly mag.

Its free from car part supplies