Golf 3 1.9tdi 1997 starting problems

[john493]

Guys - any ideas on this please, it's my sister's car. Starting problems and 3 of the glowplugs were open-circuit so I replaced them. Initially this seemed to fix the problem, now it seems to still not start instantly like it used to. From cold, the glowplug relay operates for 90 seconds after the engine starts, which seems a long time to me, I'm wondering if this is why the plugs burned out ? The glowplug relay is OK (relay 103) and the new glowplugs are still all measuring OK (about 1 ohm each).
I'm wondering if the coolant temp sensor is faulty, will try that but any ideas are welcome please !

Also how does the big circular harness connector by the gearbox end of the cylinder head come apart ? I was going to check for corrosion in there.
Thanks ?
John

[john493]

I fitted a set of Halfords glow-plugs to replace the three that were open circuit. Still the car intermittently does not start properly, turns over when cold but does not fire.

The power to the glowplugs is definitely working.

Now wondering whether the Halfords glow plugs are not suitable replacements - they all measure about 1 ohm - anyone got any ideas on this please ?

[john493]

Guys - any ideas on this - I think I'm going to price up some genuine glowplugs from TPS.