Can I hookup up glow plugs on a Foton 254A without a resistor?

gdtractor · Dec 9, 2017

I can not figure out where to hook the glow plug strip to . . (it is there and a wire runs to them but not hooked up .. I don't know where to hook them up - they do work) ...

I am thinking of putting like a starter button on the dash . . do I need to reduce the + side of the battery any hooking it up for a 10 to 30 second "heat-up" ... with a resistor? my email is gdougherty@gmail.com

THanks for any advice you can give me . !!!!

Gary Dougherty (Michigan)

Foton 254A 3 cylinder diesel .... nice tractor .. it starts eventually but very hard on the battery without the glow plugs hooked up

thanks

Bob Rooks · Dec 9, 2017

You don't need a resistor, the glow plugs are 12 volt. However, a relay is desirable. Is there a "H" position on your key switch?

jacques54 · Dec 9, 2017

I have a 2009 FT254 with a Laidong KM385 engine.
If you have glow plugs you should already have the relay install. When you turn the key between run and start you should (unless different on yours ?) hear it clicking near the fuel tank.
Don't let the glow plugs ON for too long as they become hot very fast and you will shorten their life's. I do prefer to try starting after 10 sec ON then cycle again if the engine don't run.
Also pull the trottle at 1/4 before. Diesel will not start when cold, then let idle when the engine run smoother.
I have an engine heater that help a lot to reduce strain on starting system. At -20c I will never try to start my tractor using the glow plugs only.

PILOON · Dec 9, 2017

Yes you can use a simple momentary switch like a push button or spring loaded toggle.
The glow plug amperage is high however so you need an appropriate rated switch. Probably a relay is a better choice.
If there is already a relay then simply wire a momentary style switch be it toggle or push button.
As Jacques (above) suggests, no more than 10 seconds, but U can repeat after a few mins.