Is changing the glow plugs my self

[bears4x4]

Is changing the glow plugs my self really worth it? I have the glow plugs(got a hell of a, deal dealer relacements for 1.99 ea), wires and new gaskets but have been hearing horror storys about the tips breaking off and having to pull the heads.

 

[bbressler]

I did mine, it was really easy. I didn't have any trouble with frozen plugs though, so I can't speak for that...

 

[DaveBen]

It should be easy as removing and replacing spark plugs. Don't force them is one gets stuck and doesn't want to come out. They are factory glow plugs, so you should be OK.

Dave

 

[platinum01]

Keep us updated on how it goes. Thinking it is about time for mine to be done. Just curious as to how hard it is.

 

[JRJ04]

x2...mine is starting to smoke white and run a bit rough when the temps get down into the 40's

 

[Tail_Gunner]

I did mine at the same time as the injectors. I think the worst thing about just doing glow plugs (assuming they all come out OK) would be trying to get the passenger side valve cover off, it's a real PITA. The sucky part is getting the back lower bolts for the valve cover off. What worked best for me was going thru the wheel well with a small 1/4" drive ratchet for those couple of hard to get ones.

As long as you are getting in there, you'd be well advised to get a couple of those little plastic wedges from Ford that keep the UVC connectors from coming apart. UVC connectors coming partially apart have been a persistant cause of many threads around here. I'll see if I can locate a part # for those little plastic wedges and come back here with the info.


On edit: the Ford part #2C3Z-14A163-AB, that's right off the plastic bag they came in. I just noticed the instruction sheet is from International, that part # 1844193C91

 

[DragonSlayer]

Go for it, as long as you don't force them out, you'll be fine....x2 on the PITA valve cover.....