Recently my Transit diesel pump was leaking Diesel at the solenoid. Engine was running well. I have replaced the solenoid but could not get the engine to fire up again. I then paid for the immobiliser to be cleared of any faults - none found, still won't start. Now the Glow plug light is flashing on the dash. With the history above - what could have caused the Glow plug light to flash, and will this stop the engine running. By now I'm getting desperate, please help.

Steven Butterworth, December 2006

The stop solenoid is part of the engine, it is screwed into the
engine and looks like a temperature sensor ie with one or two connectors for wires.When you turn off the ignition a ball bearing closes the fuel line to stop the engine.They can
stick in place especially with these low sulphur fuels.You can
take out the ball bearing/then replace housing to get you back on the road but you have to stall the engine to get it to stop.Plus all air has to be bled out of system which could also
be the cause of your problem.
Some garages/motoring organisations tell people they need a new diesel pump, but it is usually the stop solenoid which cost about £30, not the £300 plus for a new pump.Especially in cases where the car suddenly stops after no previous signs of problems.They should take out the solenoid and get you back on the road in 1/2 hour!!Find out where you local taxis take their cars/thats the best garage for diesels usually!

r.simms, January 2007

I believe that the stop solenoid is part of the immobiliser system, so if you replace it then it needs to be reprogrammed to match the rest of the system by Fords. The reason the Glow Plug light or MIL is flashing is because it has picked up a fault.

MrMPuk, December 2006