Glow plug warming switch

[Fermenator]

I have a 60s era ihc diesel tractor. The glow plug warmer switch keeps failing. I get maybe 6 months from the part before it fails and need to be replaced. Any ideas?

 

[BarnyardEngineering]

You are trying to use a switch that isn't rated for the Amps. Install a relay that is rated for the Amps and then use the button to trigger the relay.

 

[John T]

Over the years when dealing in used tractors or farming I saw so many push type momentary contact
switches fail because the contacts get burned, pitted, carboned up, resistive and heat up. Ifffffffff
that's the type of switch you have trouble with ??? what may help reduce that is to push it down deep fast
and hard and hold it long enough so as to reduce heat and arcing...If its more of a toggle switch you
don't have that option. Ive seen in other situations where the switch lacks adequate switching current
capacity... I see a similar problem in like golf cart or other high current solenoids or starter
solenoids where the contacts get burned and pitted and fail prematurely.

Best wishes G _ _ Bless all here

John T

 

[pete 23]

The original glow plug switch on the 560 etc handled the 70 amp draw of original glow plugs fine.
Hard telling what switch you are getting and also how much current your glow plugs are drawing.

I would say a current draw test is in order even if you install a relay so you know how much you are
dealing with.

 

[BarnyardEngineering]

The equipment to perform a "current draw test" on what could be potentially 70+ Amps is not something just everyone has sitting on the bench in their garage.

Your common everyday multimeter is only rated for 10 Amps, and that's what most people have.

 

[pete 23]

I know consumers do not have a meter to read that high, but the point is, he wanted an idea as to
why the switches were not lasting very long. If his new switch or an added relay is rated at 30
amps or so, he is not going to get good service out of either.

A whole lot of parts stores are going to sell you a ordinary automotive relay and they are not rated
for high amperage unless you specify you need one for that amperage.

 

[Brownie450]

I looked in the surplus center catalog, & they
have a 12 Volt solenoid rated 150 Amps continuous.
250 Amps break & 800 Amps inrush current.

Stock number is 11-3290
$20 plus shipping.
Jim