Replacing Spark Plugs
(Servicing an ignition system should be performed by a certified automotive professional only !)
(always wear protective safety goggles and gloves before work begins)
A spark plug is used to ignite the fuel air mixture inside the combustion chamber. If a spark plug becomes worn or damaged it can cause poor performance and fuel economy. All internal combustion engine utilizes a spark plug that needs replacement at a manufactures predetermined mileage. Consult your vehicle owner manual for specific recommendations. Always replace spark plugs when engine is cold, remove debris from the spark plug hole, (compressed or canned air works best).
1. Identify Spark Plug Components
All vehicles are different but the concept is the same. The spark plug is mounted into the cylinder head, then the spark plug is attached to the spark plug, some plug wires have a heat shield to help protect the spark plug wire from damage. This vehicle utilizes a spark plug wire but some vehicles are designed with the COS (coil over spark plug) system, were no spark plug wire is required, the ignition coil bolts top of the spark plug directly. To service the COS system un-bolt ignition coil to replace spark plug.
2. Removing Spark Plugs
Remove spark plug wire and boot, grasp the plug wire firmly and twist back and forth to release the air seal between the spark plug and spark plug wire boot. Install sparkplug removal tool, (socket wrench) and turn counter clockwise; continue until spark plug is removed.
3. Checking Gap and Reinstalling Spark Plug
After the old spark plug has been removed, inspect and match the new spark plug. With the new spark plug use a spark plug gap tool check the electrode gap, every car is different so consult the under hood sticker for spark plug gap measurement information. (most cars are between .035 and .040 of an inch is normal) Install a small amount of anti seize lubricant on the spark plug mounting threads and reinstall. Tighten only until snug, if a spark plug is installed too tight it can crack or seize in the cylinder head.
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Spark Plugs |
Quality spark plugs are necessary to keep you engine running properly. Always replace your spark plugs with top quality replacements. |
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Spark Plug |
Spark plug wires are a vital part of the ignition system by transferring voltage from the ignition coil to the spark plug. |
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Common Problems:
1. Spark Plug can misfire do to lack of maintenance.
2. Spark plug can foul do to internal engine problems.
3. Spark plug can seize in cylinder head do to improper installation.
Also see:
How to check - service engine soon light or check
engine light
How to check engine miss
How gas engines work
How hybrid engines work
How to check for low power
How to check for over heating
How to replace spark plugs
