Spark Plug: Service and Repair

REMOVAL
If spark plug for #2 or #3 cylinder is being removed, throttle body must be removed. Refer to Throttle Body Removal.

1. Remove air cleaner tube and housing.
2. Twist secondary cable at cylinder head to break loose at spark plug. Remove cable from plug.
3. Prior to removing spark plug, spray compressed air into cylinder head opening. This will help prevent foreign material from entering combustion chamber.
4. Remove spark plug from cylinder head using a quality socket with a rubber or foam insert.
5. Inspect spark plug condition. Refer to Spark Plug Conditions.

CLEANING SPARK PLUGS
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.

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.

CAUTION: Spark plug tightening on the 2.4L is torque critical. The plugs are equipped with tapered seats. Do not exceed 15 ft. lbs. torque.

Special care should be taken when installing spark plugs into the cylinder head spark plug wells. Be sure the plugs do not drop into the plug wells as electrodes can be damaged.

Always tighten spark plugs to the specified torque. Over tightening can cause distortion resulting in a change in the spark plug gap or a cracked porcelain insulator.

1. Start the spark plug into the cylinder head by hand to avoid cross threading.
2. Tighten spark plugs. Refer to torque specifications.
3. Install throttle body (if necessary). Refer to Throttle Body Installation.
4. Install air cleaner tube and housing.