How hard is it to replace glow plugs in a F250, 1996 power stroke 7.3L? Last time it was done dealer did it and only replaced 1.(done at 50K)I think I want to replace all of them. The old gal is getting harder to start even when plugged in. I assume the valve covers must come off. I see a power lead running down in the covers. I have some time off during the Christmas/New years. What kind of cost for the glow plugs? Thanks

 

First you may want to check to make sure the glow relay is functioning.. But, a more common problem on the earlier PSD's was burning at the valve cover (UVC) gasket connection/s (outer most wires/pins on each connector) andglows can drop off line if a connection is lost.. Look at the valve cover connections a see if you see evidence of high heat, melting/bulging at the connectors.. If they look OK, you can unplug the connectors and ohm test the individual glows and prove out circuit continuity through the outer cover connections for opens ect. without pulling the valve covers.. There's always a chance the stub harness are toast inside the covers too, or a failing or loose due to heatUVC connector/connection, and not actually a dead GP.. Not a terrible job to replace the GP's, but the UVC gaskets, and harness's can be a few bucks, more so in comparision to the cost of the GP's if burned on both sides..

 

what weight oil are you running? i was using the normal 15w 40 oil, but in winter i have to use the 10w 30, or the 5w 40 oil, all made by rotella, if i have the heavy stuff in it wont start if at or below ten degrees