Glow controller Upgrade

[rthomse]

I have an 83 GMC K2500 6.2 with 120,000 miles.I have put alot of work into her and I think its controller time, again!I''ve replaced within the past year cables ,batterys,Injectors,Pump,AG 60 glow plugs,and a gear reduction starter.She does not want to start when it sits for 1 hr or so.When I replaced the controller(NAPA) 2 years ago the glow plugs would cycle always at start .She starts fine when cold.So am I wrong to think the controller is going bad? This is the second one.If anyone can give me insight before I spend the bucks on a controler and harness to upgrade it to the 85 electronic system.I'd relly be grateful.PS the symptoms are the same as they were when I first replaced the controller

[dieselmab]

I would go ahead and do the upgrade. I did in my '84. You'll be glad you did.

Your details are a little sketchy to guess at your problem.

I know a GM dealer in Nebraska that sells on the internet for a little above cost.

In my case the ignition swith is sending 12V to the controller intermittently so sometimes I have to play with the key to get the plugs to light.

[rthomse]

Dumb question! The ignition switch that would be on the collum behind the dash not the lock ,right?

[ropinfool]

That is correct.

[Stray Cat]

After going through several Glow Plug Controllers in several years, I by-passed it! I put a 30A, spring-loaded, push-button, momentary switch (designed as an ignition switch) in the dash and I have complete control over when the glow-plugs are on and off. Works great and my glow-plugs no lomger fail regularly!

[NH2112]

Are you using the switch to pull in a heavy duty relay that handles the actual power to the glow plugs? If not, you're asking for melted wiring at a minimum, and possibly a fire.