When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Recently acquired a mostly stock 01 f350 with 330k on the clock. The previous owner replaced the glow plugs, harnesses, and the solenoid. Everything works as it should. He cannot remember the brand of plugs but said he ordered them online which makes me fear these were cheaper units. I’ve heard that some of the cheaper plugs have issues with snapping off. Is there a way to tell what plugs I have even after pulling them? I’m not real familiar with these and wasn’t sure how well they are marked. Or is it worth just replacing these for the peace of mind? If that is the case what brands are safe to use?
I guess if you want to be sure, then pull the valve covers and go after them. (tip) Use a 1/4" drive socket. The 3/8 drive is too wide at the shoulder and will bind up on the rocker arm.
While you are there, be sure and retorque the rocker arm pedastals and injector hold down bolts. Some engines, they come loose. It's always good to check.
I believe the good ones are the Motorcraft ZD-11s, sold in various places, including Rock Auto. I believe the part number was stamped on the side of the glow plugs. Since a lot of stuff is faked, buy them from a reputable source.
The one with a bad rep is Autolite. The tips can swell and then break off inside the cylinder when the GP is yanked. I will put a pic of those steely demons below.
I'll link a GP Pull How To pdf below. If you do pull your GPs, do not force them out like Hans Hamhands hopped up on jalapenos. They might have swollen tips.
I recall there is a thread that had great pics on how to identify real BERU GPs without pulling them, but I cannot find it atm. Details above the threads are different from the Autolites. Crimps or something.
I recall there is a thread that had great pics on how to identify real BERU GPs without pulling them, but I cannot find it atm. Details above the threads are different from the Autolites. Crimps or something.
This should be the thread. When wanting to reference it I go to SSJ’s profile and look under his “started threads.” Maybe it should be included in the tech folder.
My understanding is that the ZD-11 has been replaced by the ZD-30 glow plug. At least that's what I just put in my truck a few months ago....also says BERU on it.
I currently have Bosch glow plugs in my truck and they've been doing just fine (I think). But I'm replacing my injectors with remans from Full Force, and bundling new Motorcraft valve cover gaskets + GPs was a reasonably good deal.
Does anyone know what brand they put in the T444e and whether they're any good? I've heard that some International/Navistar parts are known to be better than the Ford ones... I'm thinking of the camshaft sensor in particular...
Sorry for the delayed response, for some reason I had trouble logging in for a few days.
Thanks for all the responses. I was under the impression that these were breaking off during operation. Is it mainly during removal? Also what is the average life span of glow plugs?
Sorry if these are novice questions. This is my first diesel.
