O.k. this is gunna sound dumb to most of you but what is a glow plug used for, how do you use it and how long does it last?? thanx a lot for any help.

I'm no expert, but a glow plug for a glow engine is about the same as a spark plug for a combustion engine.

It has an element that is heated by an external source (a glow starter) and provides the "fire" when the fuel is compressed on the up stroke of the glow engine piston. Much like the spark generated from a spark plug. Once the glow engine is running, the glow starter is removed and then engine usually stays running because the heat generated by the combustion keeps the glow plug hot.

Basically, if you don't have a glow plug that works properly (gets and stays red hot) then you don't have a glow engine that will run.

As for how long they last, ask 5 different people and you'll get 7 different answers. I use Fireballs and I average 1 (one) plug per year, per engine.

Hope this helps,

> then engine usually stays running because the heat generated by the combustion keeps the glow plug hot. <

The coil is also kept hot by its catalytic reaction with the alcohol in the fuel.

Dave Segal

Are the stick things that you use to start the glow plug, glow plug starters?? If so how do you use these?

Hi bgc22: Yes the stick things you refer to are known by several different names. 2 that come to mind are a head lite, and the other, a glow driver. There are several diff. types. some use a wire to connect to an external power source, such as a power panel. or lantern battery, I think 1.2 or 1.5 volts. Others have a self contained c-cell rechargable battery, some have a replacable c-cell alkaline battery. There are ones with a long neck that make it easier to reach recessed glow plugs like you find in rc cars. You attach these to the glow plug. One style has a spring loaded clip that is somewhat hard to explain, but when you put it on the glow plug, you have to pull up on the part with the spring to lock it in place. Once you see one, there will be no confusion. The other you put on the glow plug, and twist about 1/16 of a turn clockwise, and it locks on. Just the opposite to remove after the engine is running. I prefer the self contained style, because there is no wire to get caught in the prop, also if the engine flames out on the runway I have a head lite in one pocket, and a chicken stick (something other then my finger to flip the prop with), in my other pocket. Good luck Garry.

The glow plug is the hart of your engine. Unlike a spark plug, the heat of the crankcase keeps the plug warm. When your engine is at idle, your plug is cooler, wich leads to slower explosions inside. When your engine is running at full, your plug is hot, leading to faster explosions. Also be sure that if you have a hot engine to get a cool plug. If you have cool engine, get a hot plug.

Sorry its so complicated!