Resistors

[Krueger]

I have a '77 300D that I cannot start. A few days ago the glow light indicator did not come on and the car would not start. After checking the plugs I noticed the 1st one was completely fried (the core completely melted). I also noticed that the wire and connector to the 1st resistor was completely blown off. I proceeded to change all five plugs and the fuse, connected the resistor, however the glow light still will not come on and the car will not start.

Being an amateur, what part do the resistors play? Is it possible that this is what keeps the car from starting? I have not seen any information in the forums about this topic - it's always about the plugs and the relay. Are the resistors connected with the glow circuit? Any info will be greatly appreciated so I can get her back up and running.

[Lycoming-8]

The resistors allowed MB to use low voltage glow plugs on a 12 volt system. All plugs and resistors need to be installed and tightly wired together for the system to work. The later system of parallel wired glow plugs is really a better system and the conversion is available but does require some rewiring.

[t walgamuth]

i recommend not converting the older cars to the fast glow plugs. i had trouble with longivity on mine. it is very hard to startone of these babies with all your gow plugs burned out.

if you are unconvinced i have a set of four in my garage i will give you.

[Stevo]

I agree with t walgamuth, throw those old style plugs as far as you can and get the new style ones. Much better system, you can use the old relay if you want but disconnect the ground strap and upgrade to a 80 amp strip fuse.