Kubota L4310 Glow Plug Problem

[rbircher60]

I have a Kubota L4310 Tractor. The glow plug comes on at the time of starting, and stays on for a considerable amount of time. This just started a day ago. Occasionally, it may go out, but then come back on again.
1) Will operating the tractor with it on, cause any damage?
2) How can I determine the cause and the remedy the problem?

Thanks rtb60

 

[KennyV]

Under the 'dash' on the right side there is a glow plug controller ... it is bad, you will have to replace it. Around $70 ...
You will have to take the top of the instrument panel off to get to it. The glow plug relay and a couple others are over there...
If you go to this thread, and see the 6th post, I put the schematics for the system and a layout... http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/kubota-owning-operating/134518-glow-plug-wiring-help-needed.html
Simple fix but pricey as it is usually only a diode worth a couple cents that fails, but it is a common failure. I should start collecting the bad ones and repairing them... KennyV

 

[KennyV]

Sorry missed the second part of your question...
It will not hurt the engine to use it as is... BUT it will shorten the life of the glow plugs a LOT...
Those 4 are rather pricey so you don't want to have to replace them and the controller later...
somewhere I posted a work around for replacing the controller with a normally open push button switch... you can do that by applying ground to one of the wires that plugs on the controller... The whole system remains the same except it will no longer be 'automatically' timed according to the ambient temperature... but most folks don't mind the $70 to keep it automatic... KennyV

 

[rbircher60]

I really appreciate your response. I'll give it a try and let you know. I'm not a 'real' mechanic, but don't hesitate to try something myself.

Thanks again.