Glow Plugs or Spark Plugs?? Are they the same thing? - Benzworld.org

sudha · 11-28-2005, 10:53 PM

Ok guys....i am Confused...

I keep reading about glow plugs..what are they?

Are they the same as Spark Plugs or something entirely different?

Is it something limited to Diesel engines?

I am driving a w123 200 Petrol...what are my options?

cheers!

**H-TownBenzoboy** · 11-28-2005, 11:22 PM

Glow plugs are for diesels only. Spark plugs are for gasoline powered cars. Read about glow plugs and their function here.
http://www.benzworld.org/forums/foru...view.asp?fid=9

Cyberbach · 11-28-2005, 11:33 PM

Glow plugs heat the cylinder prior to initial starting but a diesel doesn't need spark for detonation due to the high compression where as gas or petrol engines need a spark for combustion on each and every stroke hence the spark plug.

karugs · 11-29-2005, 12:35 PM

Actually back then diesels also used spark plugs, but we're talking early 20th century. [:D]

Sudha, don't worry. Just get those spark plugs and you won't have a problem. [:)]

sudha · 11-30-2005, 10:27 PM

hey guys...thanks...makes a world of difference now.

but I am having difficulty figuring out my 123...every cold is horendous...the car jerks big time but goes really smooth after it has sufficiently warmed up especially after 20 mins of driving.

and noticed that during startups, the idle is low...i always thought that during cold starts there is a solenoid that keeps the idle sped high for the car to warm up...