If you want to know which glow plug to use for your RC car keep reading. Also, learn what temperature they are, and the best time to replace them.
Which Glow Plug Do I Need for a Nitro Engine in an RC Car?
Here are the factors to consider and tips to choose the right one:
Factors to Consider:
- Heat Range: Glow plugs come in different heat ranges – cold, medium, and hot.
- Hot Plugs: Suitable for cooler ambient temperatures and generally provide a smoother idle and better fuel economy. They are best for engines with lower compression ratios.
- Medium Plugs: As the name suggests, these are middle-of-the-road plugs suitable for a wide range of conditions and are commonly used in many stock engines.
- Cold Plugs: Ideal for high-compression engines or when running in very warm ambient temperatures. They can handle higher power without overheating.
- Engine Type: Different engines (like .12 or .21) might have specific glow plug requirements. Always check the engine manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Fuel Nitro Percentage: Nitro fuel comes in various percentages of nitromethane. Higher nitromethane content may require a colder plug, while lower percentages might work best with a hotter plug.
- Driving Conditions: If you’re racing, you might opt for a different plug than if you’re just bashing around in the backyard.
- Brand and Quality: Like all components, not all glow plugs are made equal. Quality plugs will provide consistent performance and last longer.
Tips for Selecting the Right Glow Plug:
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- Start with Manufacturer Recommendations: Always check your engine’s manual or manufacturer’s website for specific glow plug suggestions.
- Experiment and Observe: If you’re unsure, start with a medium heat range plug. Observe the engine’s performance, and if necessary, switch to a hotter or colder plug. The goal is to find the optimal balance between performance and engine longevity.
- Look for Visual Cues: An overly dark or wet plug might indicate that the plug is too cold or the fuel mixture is too rich. Conversely, a whitish or blistered plug can mean the plug is too hot or the mixture is too lean.
- Consult with Fellow Hobbyists: If you’re part of a local RC club or online forum, don’t hesitate to ask others about their experiences. They might provide insights tailored to your specific model or engine.
What is a Glow Plug?
A glow plug is an essential component in a nitro engine that ignites the fuel/air mixture inside the combustion chamber. It’s similar to a spark plug in gasoline engines but works slightly differently. Instead of producing a spark, a glow plug maintains a hot, glowing filament that ignites the fuel.
What is the Temperature of the Glow Plugs in a Nitro RC Car?
The temperature of a glow plug in a Nitro RC car can vary based on several factors, including the engine’s running conditions, the type of nitro fuel used, and the design of the plug itself. However, generally:
Initial Heating:
When the glow plug is initially activated (usually by an external battery), its temperature can rapidly reach approximately 1,200°F to 1,500°F (650°C to 815°C). This heat is enough to make the coil glow, thus providing the necessary ignition source for the nitro fuel.
During Operation:
Once the engine is running and the external battery is removed, the glow plug can maintain its glow through a phenomenon called catalytic combustion. The temperature can fluctuate but generally remains in the 1,200°F to 1,500°F (650°C to 815°C) range.
The heat generated by the burning fuel and the catalytic action of the glow plug’s metal helps it maintain this glow, even without continuous electrical heating.
Factors Affecting Glow Plug Temperature
- Nitro Percentage: The nitro percentage in the fuel can impact the combustion temperature. Higher nitro percentages might require hotter glow plugs, while lower percentages may work best with cooler plugs.
- Air-to-fuel ratio: Just like in full-sized combustion engines, the air-to-fuel ratio can impact the combustion temperature. A lean mixture (more air) might result in higher temperatures, while a rich mixture (more fuel) can cool things down.
- Engine Load: When the engine is under more stress, like during rapid acceleration, the combustion temperature might increase.
When Should I Replace My RC Glow Plugs?
Here are the signs that you need a new glow plug:
- Difficulty Starting: If you find your nitro engine increasingly difficult to start, it could be due to a malfunctioning glow plug.
- Poor Idling: An erratic or unstable idle is a potential sign of a worn or damaged glow plug.
- Decreased Performance: If your RC vehicle is sluggish or doesn’t maintain its top speed as it used to, the glow plug might be at fault.
- Physical Damage: A visual inspection can reveal damages such as bent or broken filaments.
- Shortened Run Time: If your engine is stalling or running out of power more quickly than usual, it might be time to inspect or replace the glow plug.
- After A Specific Number of Runs: Depending on the quality and make of your glow plug, and the conditions in which you run your RC vehicle, you may want to replace the plug after a certain number of runs. As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to consider replacing the plug every 3-4 gallons of fuel consumed.
- Performance Decline: Even if the glow plug appears fine, a noticeable performance decline is a sign that replacement is necessary.
- Post-Crash: After a significant crash, it’s wise to inspect and potentially replace the glow plug, even if it isn’t visibly damaged. The impact can sometimes harm the internal filament.
How do I preserve the life of my glow plug?
To ensure your glow plug is in optimal condition:
- Regular Inspections: Remove and visually inspect the glow plug periodically. Look for any wear, deposits, or damage to the filament.
- Use a Glow Plug Igniter: A glow plug igniter can help you check if the glow plug still works. A properly functioning plug will glow brightly when connected to an igniter.
- Clean the Plug: Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove any deposits from the plug.
