I have a 1998 2.8 TDI and am on my 3rd set of glowplugs this year! Any ideas why this could be?
Prices range from R450 each from the stealers to R89.95 each from Allparts in Dbn. Is it a case of you get what you pay for in quality?
What is the correct spec? Can't find it in my car's manual.
Thank you!
The "glow plug consumption" seems to be very high! 
I would guess that the problem lies with the electric / electronic control system, and not necessarily with the glow plugs themselves.
I would guess that the glow plugs have power fed to them for way to long, after the engine has started.
A simple test would be to connect a voltage meter to the glow plug buzz bar and (temporarily) fit the voltage meter to the dashboard. Keep an eye on the voltage over the buzz bar.
The power should be disconnected (0 Volts) after (max.) a few minutes (depending on conditions, temperature etc).
If it stays at 10-12 V for a considerable time, there is a problem.
I would guess that the problem lies with the electric / electronic control system, and not necessarily with the glow plugs themselves.
I would guess that the glow plugs have power fed to them for way to long, after the engine has started.
A simple test would be to connect a voltage meter to the glow plug buzz bar and (temporarily) fit the voltage meter to the dashboard. Keep an eye on the voltage over the buzz bar.
The power should be disconnected (0 Volts) after (max.) a few minutes (depending on conditions, temperature etc).
If it stays at 10-12 V for a considerable time, there is a problem.
Gerhard Fourie
If you want to shoot somebody, make sure you aim at his head, not your own foot.
Me
If you want to shoot somebody, make sure you aim at his head, not your own foot.
Me
Well, at long last got some glowplugs and installed them. Power stays on for 8-10 seconds at 12V. Does this sound correct?