Ford Focus 1.8Tdti Zetec - Slow starting - glow plugs suspected ?

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Sat 23 Feb 2013 17:37
Ford Focus 1.8Tdti Zetec - Slow starting - glow plugs suspected ? - Englishbullterrier

Sorry, posted in wrong section, reposting -

Recently aquired vehicle. Lovely condition, inside and out. However, 123k miles.

Totally fully up to date service history with cambelt etc done at 89k.

However, needs to be cranked 2 or 3 times (with starter engaged longer than usual) to start car in this cold weather. Never failed to start yet however.

Seems to be firing on 2 only on these first attempts, so I suspect glow plugs.

I've changed glows on Astra 1.7Cdti and also my old (non-common rail) diesel Escort, but never on a Focus.

Can anyone tell me if it's a fairly straight forward job ?

Many thanks........................ebt

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Sat 23 Feb 2013 17:40
Ford Focus 1.8Tdti Zetec - Slow starting - glow plugs suspected ? - Englishbullterrier

I never crank straight away.

I ALWAYS, wait until glow light has gone out and then for 5 seconds more, as most cars keep them on even after light is turned off.

Sometimes I will even cycle them off and back on again (with ignition key) to ensure they're nice and hot.

I normally test them straight across a battery.

Thanks...........ebt

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