Aftermarket February 2023

FEBRUARY 2023 AFTERMARKET 49 Increased demand Then, of course, there is the issue of glow plugs. As NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Marketing Manager Mark Hallam noted, winter is the peak season for glow plugs: “Glow plugs sales spike in the winter months as temperatures fall and NGK is here to help garages cope with the increased demand by ensuring we stock the right profile of glow plugs to leverage this sales opportunity.” He continued: “Glow plug replacement should be part of the winter service as they play an integral role in a vehicle’s economy and emissions’ performance. Instead of changing one faulty glow plug, workshops should upsell by replacing all of them. If one plug has failed, it is extremely likely that the remaining plugs will shortly suffer a similar fate. By replacing the vehicle set, not only will the tight emissions legislation be complied with, but as the glow plug is now an integral part of the engine management system, the starting and cold drive quality will be kept at its maximum.” On installation, he observed: “If there is doubt that a glow plug can be removed without damage, then if accessibility, circumstances, and time permits, then apply penetrating oil around the glow plug, then a squirt of engine oil. The vehicle should then be continued to be used and tackle the job another day - to allow the oil to penetrate and do its work. Remove the glow plug whilst the engine is still hot, using obvious precautions to protect hands. To avoid damage to a new glow plug, follow the installation advice on the NGK packaging. Always install on to the taper seat by hand, do not over tighten the glow plug - or the terminal if the electrical connection is secured via a nut.” Mark added: “Because glow plugs are now a vital part of the engine management system it has never been more important to ensure that the installer is fitting the correct specification item. Avoid budget alternatives as the engine management system can pick up very quickly the fact that they are not to the correct specification. The glow/engine management light will illuminate, performance of the vehicle will suffer, and worst case would be that consequential damage could result.” For more information, visit: www.ngkntk.com/uk Excessive On what to do with a faulty glow plug, DENSO Europe Pan European Strategic Marketing Manager Fatiha Laauich said: “The majority of glow plug failures are caused by excessive voltage or heat. Therefore, it is advisable to check the entire electrical ignition system to identify the underlying fault. Overly advanced injection timing, leaky injectors, or diesel running in the engine will cause the combustion temperature to increase too much, which can also damage the glow plugs. So, finding faults quickly will help to minimise engine damage. “When installing DENSO glow plugs, use an appropriate wrench and socket for the glow plug and terminal. Also, when replacing the glow plug, make sure that any oil, dirt or debris etc. on the outside of the old glow plug, does not enter the cylinder Before inserting the new glow plug, clean the engine side of the flange and the top of the thread on the cylinder head and then, once the two screw threads are correctly in line, tighten it by hand until it cannot be tightened any further. Finally, use a torque wrench to tighten the plug accurately to the torque specified by the VM.” Below: Launch Tech UK’s DPF cleaning gun It’s important that the UK considers introducing more appropriate emissions testing for diesel vehicles ”