glow plug wiring

[metalmender]

totally off tractor question but thought you guys may be able to help,the glow plugs in my Lincoln diesel welder just stopped working yesterday, Can I hook a test light or meter up to the first glow plug in line and check for power there or is there a preferred method other than this to troubleshoot these darn things. Sorry for the off tractor question and thanks in advance for your help.
PS I need to push and hold a button by the starter to actuate the glow plugs

 

[leon]

It would probably help a lot of you told what make and model of engine.

 

[JDemaris]

You can check any glow plug by using a voltmeter. One lead to the grounded base of the glow plug and the other to the power-terminal on it. That test will only tell you if it's getting power. To see if it's working - hook an amp-meter in-line with the power lead. Most glow plugs if running 9-12 volts draw around 8-10 amps.

 

[Janicholson]

However, some glow plug systems are in series and have no internal ground. If each has 2 terminals, they can be checked from terminal to terminal for resistance (very low number) any that are open (high ohms or infinite) will cause all of them to not work, like old Christmas Tree lights. Jim