Glow plug/starter switch inspection

[2ndwish]

When we performed the wire harness upgrade last summer, we noticed the glow plug switch had some corrosion on it. We got around to replacing it yesterday and were horrified with the condition of the old switch. The mechanical stem was very loose at the junction with the electrical portion of the switch. With it removed, it was easy to see that the button was not returning smoothly and it was probably a matter of months before it got stuck in the "on" position. This could be very bad for the health of the glow plugs (or starter, since it is the same type of switch) and worth an inspection on older vessels.

[Ron Hill]

2nd : The 1986 & 87 C34 engine panels have two spring loaded push ON switches, one for the starter and one for the glow plugs. 

What you could do beside replacing that glow plug push ON switch, is to get a new 3 position key switch like all of the later 1988-2009 C34s have and wire the glow plugs in the spring loaded position of that new switch.
 
If you haven't upgraded the glow plug wiring to include a solenoid, now is the time to do that (Many Mainsheet and projects writeups).  It'll cut the glow plug switch ON time from over 30 sec to 10 sec. A few thoughts

[2ndwish]

Ron - Thanks for the tip (as usual). I hadn't realized it was only the first two years that had this arrangement. Since I already spent the $$ on the switch, it will have to wait for another 20 years or so ;)
T