I have a 2000 PSD 4x4 and my "Service Engine" light came on. So after charging me $100 to run A diagnostic the dealer told me that I possibly need to replace my Glow Plug Module at a cost of $400. They said this may or may not be the problem but it's a good place to start. I told them I wanted to look into it first. Does anyone know what a Glow Plug Module is? Does $400 sound right to replace one? What if it doesn't work?

 

Riffraff Diesel: Motorcraft GPCM/ Glow Plug Control Module

I assume you are referring to the Glow plug control module (GPCM). Those are usually found on CA trucks. Unless u are all thumbs, u can buy one from clay and change it yourself and save about $250.

 

Maybe he's referring to the Glow Plug Relay??? If so, then $45 and 15 minutes sounds more like it. You'll want to replace it with a heavy duty Stancore relay. Direct bolt in replacement. Simple.

Welcome to guzzle's Stancor GPR replacement Mod Web Page

 

It could be. I just assumed by the price and him being in Ca, it was prob GPCM

 

It's easy to tell if the GPCM is working. If you have a volt meter check voltage at battery, then have someone turn the key and see if it drops off to about 11 volts for about 3 minutes and then goes back up to over 12 volts. I bought one for mine as I was told it was bad, it wasn't, now it's a spare in my tool box.

armstrong

 

I take another look at my service receipt and see if it is indeed a Glow Plug Control Module.
Thanks

 

Mine also has a fault code once in a while. You dont actually NEED to replace it. It wont cause any problems. I am going to replace mine eventually just so I dont have a check engine light, but it doesnt cause problems so its not high on my list

 

Been having cold start problems unless I plug in my engine overnight...is the GPCM a good place to start if I don't have to much money to take it to a shop?

 

If the GPCM is not functioning it will turn on your handy dandy check engine light.

 

Wallyworld sells a plug in volt tester that you can plug into your accessory port. (truck not running)

1) When it is plugged in you should have 'around' 12.5 volts (with new batts)

2)when you turn the key on the
Glow Plug Relay/ Glow Plug Control Module should kick in and the voltage will drop to read around 11.5v.

3) Note: these trucks need 10.5 volts to start, so if you have low batts and a voltage drop below 10.5, your truck will not start.

4) When truck is started... the voltage on the will move up to 12.5v.

5) When the GPR/GPCM shuts off the voltage slowly rise up to 14.3 (around).... this will show your Alt output.

6) the rising and falling of the voltage at the different times in the starting sequence will (help) show you what is or is not working properly.

Batts, GPR/GPCM, Atl.