Can't start M1009, 1986 K5 Blazer

[p47flyboy]

Just bought ex-military k5 blazer. At this time I have to raise hood and attach a wire to a terminal on a relay to activate the glow plugs. The seller said turn key on and wait 30 seconds then remove wire then crank. It finally worked on the 3rd try but I left the wire connected. This worked fine for several days but now I can't get it started. I've put about 20 miles on it after topping off the fuel tank. Do you pump the accelerator while starting a diesel? Any info that might help will be appreciated and thanks.

 

[brian wafer]

the wire must be for glow plugs,if they are left on too long they burn. and you need them to preheat the engine too start it up.

 

[p47flyboy]

Glow plugs- how long

Hi, thanks for the quick response. How long is too long? I think they haven't been on more than 60 sec and on while cranking. So you think the glow plugs would need to be replaced?

 

[brian wafer]

they are different kinds off glow plugs some can take more than others you would need too check them one by one. and easy way is too unplug all 8 wires hook on the spade therminal of each glow plug. take a jumper wire from the spade therminal on the glow plug and lightly tap it to positive off battery you should see a spark. if no spark glow plug is dead. they are other ways too do it but this way always work well for me. must leave for work good luck.

 

[p47flyboy]

Glow plug

Thanks, I'll give it a try.
Wayne

 

[p47flyboy]

Hey Brian, A friend using a test light determined I had never actually activated the glow plugs as I was shown a totally dead wire to touch terminal! He/we hot wired to the relay/solenoid with toggle switch in cab. Now when flip switch to ON can hear the CLICK. Not sure if all glow plugs function (need to use your check). We could not get them out. Friend's guess is that the plugs must have carbon build up enough that the element end is too big to come out the hole. Do you know any tricks to get the plugs out?
Thanks,
Wayne

 

[brian wafer]

do they unscrew enought for all the treads too come out. its a problem they may swell when they burn,or carbon. try a good loose nut ,and go gently you don,t want them too break.test them first too only work on burnt ones.

 

[p47flyboy]

hard to remove glow plugs

Right, we could see all the threads were out but it wouldn't come out. plan to use test light touching spade terminal and positive on battery. If good, it should light up, correct?
Wayne