Glow Plug System

1987 Jeep Cherokee LimitedSECTION Glow Plug System

Engine starting is aided by an electric glow plug system. Glow plugs are small heaters that assist in cold starting. A glow plug is threaded into each cylinder combustion chamber. This system pre-heats each combustion chamber to aid ignition of fuel.

System consists of 4 glow plugs, control switch, timer, and a wiring harness which incorporates 4 fused wires (one for each glow plug) located between wiring harness and glow plug terminal.

The glow plug controller and relay cycle 12 volts to these 6-volt heaters, which causes them to heat rapidly. After engine starts, glow plugs remain on between 4 and 10 seconds during initial starting cycle.

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.