Has anybody tried an air wrench for stubborn glow plug removal? It seems that the ratcheting action would help break loose the carbon deposits.

I was wondering that my self, but I would also worry about the force of impact breaking something like the tip.

I have not replaced my GP's yet, but that is on tap for spring time, or earlier if one decided to let go.

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RRGrassi


70's Southern Pacific #5608 Fairmont A-4 MOW car

13 VW JSW 2.0 TDI 193K, Tuned with DPF and EGR Delete.

91 W124 300D Turbo replaced, Pressure W/G actuator installed. 210K

90 Dodge D250 5.9 Cummins/5 speed. 400K

I don't find the 'breaking loose' as difficult as getting tools in the right place to rachet (whether air, cordless drill or by hand).

diesel don

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DAILY DRIVERS:
'84 300DT 298k (Aubrey's)
'99.5 Jetta TDI IV 251k (Julie's)
'97 Jetta TDI 127k (Amber's)
'97 Jetta TDI 186k (Matt's)
'96 Passat TDI 237k (Don's
'84 300D 211k Mint (Arne- Undergoing Greasecar Conversion)

SOLD:
'82 240D 229k (Matt's - Converted-300DT w/ 4 speed

If you have any access to Soy-Biodiesel, try running a tank or two if you have carbon problems. It will clear up the carbon pretty fast! (Especially with the Italian tuneup!)

on the 606 engines, we use a 3/8" impact gun to remove the glow plugs to keep them from breaking off...no problems yet. The veggie cars are worse because of the carbon buildup.
Dave

I just did this yesterday. I would like to thank the previous mechanic/owner wherever you are for using anti seize on the GP. I've been dreading this for awhile, but it became a necessity recently. A long 21mm wrench and gentle persuasion freed them uneventfully. Switched over to parallel plugs (thanks Diesel Giant). I'm not sure you can get a pneumatic driver into position on a 616. I didn't remove the hardlines. Makes for more awkward hand and wrench positions.

My 240D seems to start almost instantly now. I wish I had done this sooner.

Kevin
1979 240D manual
1984 190D manual