Spark Plug: Service and Repair

Cable Removal:

All engines use resistor type spark plugs. Remove the spark plugs and examine them for burned electrodes and fouled, cracked or broken porcelain insulators. Keep plugs arranged in the order in which they were removed from the engine. A single plug displaying an abnormal condition indicates that a problem exists in the corresponding cylinder.

PLUG REMOVAL
1. Always remove spark plug or ignition coil cables by grasping at the cable boot. Turn the cable boot 1/2 turn and pull straight back in a steady motion. Never pull directly on the cable. Internal damage to cable will result.
2. Prior to removing the spark plug, spray compressed air around the spark plug hole and the area around the spark plug. This will help prevent foreign material from entering the combustion chamber.
3. Remove the spark plug using a quality socket with a rubber or foam insert.
4. Inspect the spark plug condition.

PLUG CLEANING
The plugs may be cleaned using commercially available spark plug cleaning equipment. After cleaning, file the center electrode flat with a small point file or jewelers file before adjusting gap.

CAUTION: Never use a motorized wire wheel brush to clean the spark plugs. Metallic deposits will remain on the spark plug insulator and will cause plug misfire.

Setting Spark Plug Gap - Typical:

PLUG GAP ADJUSTMENT
Check the spark plug gap with a gap gauge tool. If the gap is not correct, adjust it by bending the ground electrode. Never attempt to adjust the gap by bending the center electrode.

PLUG INSTALLATION
Always tighten spark plugs to the specified torque. Over tightening can cause distortion. This may result in a change in the spark plug gap, or a cracked porcelain insulator.

When replacing the spark plug and ignition coil cables, route the cables correctly and secure them in the appropriate retainers. Failure to route the cables properly can cause the radio to reproduce ignition noise. It could cause cross ignition of the spark plugs, or short circuit the cables to ground.
1. Start the spark plug into the cylinder head by hand to avoid cross threading.
2. Tighten the spark plugs to 35-41 Nm (26-30 ft. lbs.) torque.
3. Install spark plug cables over spark plugs.