GPR dissected
I finally dissected my GPR relay. Looks like the plunger plate contacts approx
2/3 of the terminal contacts. Seems like they could do a better job on the design. Being that they're only $25 to replace i think ,since i live in the cold NE,
i'll replace mine about once a year.
Nut
I disconnected computer control of the glow plug relay. What I did was to remove the small ground wire from the GPR and connect a lead going to a momentary switch in the cab, which simply goes through the switch to ground.
The reason I did that was I was not comfortable with the glow plugs being on for up to two minutes after the engine started. It's my opinion that the glow plugs are only needed for starting the engine. The reason that they are commanded to run so long is to combat the normal smoking that a cold diesel will put out for the first minute of operation.
Well I understand that it's nothing to worry about. So in the interest of long glow plug and relay service life, I made it a manual system like an old Mercedes Benz. It only takes about 5 seconds of power to the glow plugs and the motor starts. Yes it belches smoke, but only for the first minute.
I disconnected computer control of the glow plug relay. What I did was to remove the small ground wire from the GPR and connect a lead going to a momentary switch in the cab, which simply goes through the switch to ground.
The reason I did that was I was not comfortable with the glow plugs being on for up to two minutes after the engine started. It's my opinion that the glow plugs are only needed for starting the engine. The reason that they are commanded to run so long is to combat the normal smoking that a cold diesel will put out for the first minute of operation.
Well I understand that it's nothing to worry about. So in the interest of long glow plug and relay service life, I made it a manual system like an old Mercedes Benz. It only takes about 5 seconds of power to the glow plugs and the motor starts. Yes it belches smoke, but only for the first minute.
My guess is that the coil is better able to maintain actuation for longer periods without overheating, and that would be the only difference.
Heck, when I get around to switching mine to manual control, if I ever need to replace it, a starter solenoid is what I'm buying!
They're cheap, and made by a bizzillion aftermarket makers (likely now all in China). Available ANYWHERE!!!
Thanks, Nut, for the good info!
Pop
Last edited by SpringerPop; Jan 22, 2006 at 06:30 PM.









