Spark Plug: Testing and Inspection

NOTICE:
- Never use a wire brush for cleaning.
- Never attempt to adjust the electrode gap on used a spark plug.
- Spark plugs should be replaced every 100,000 km (60,000 miles).
1. DISCONNECT HIGH-TENSION CORDS FROM SPARK PLUGS.





2. INSPECT ELECTRODE.
- Using a megger (insulation resistance meter), measure the insulation resistance.

Standard correct Insulation resistance: 10 M Ohms or more

- If the resistance is less than specified, proceed to step 3.

HINT: If a megger is not available, the following simple method of inspection provides fairly accurate results.

Simple Method:
- Quickly race the engine to 4,000 rpm 5 times.
- Remove the spark plug. (See step 3)





- Visually check the spark plug.
- If the electrode is dry... OK
- If the electrode is wet... Proceed to step 4
- Reinstall the spark plug. (See step 7)

3. REMOVE SPARK PLUGS.
- Using a 16 mm plug wrench, remove the 6 spark plugs.
4. INSPECT SPARK PLUGS VISUALLY.
- Check the spark plug for thread damage and insulator damage.
- If abnormal, replace the spark plug.

Recommended spark plug:
ND: PK16R11
NGK: BKR5EP11





5. INSPECT ELECTRODE GAP.

Maximum electrode gap for used spark plug:
1.3 mm (0.051 in.)

- If the gap is greater than maximum, replace the spark plug.

Correct electrode gap for new spark plug:
1.1 mm (0.043 in.)

NOTICE:
- If adjusting the gap of a new spark plug, bend only the base of the ground electrode. Do not touch the tip.
- Never attempt to adjust the gap on the used plug.





6. CLEAN SPARK PLUGS.
- If the electrode has traces of wet carbon, allow it to dry and then clean with a spark plug cleaner.

Air pressure:
Below 588 kPa (6 kgf.cm*, 85 psi)
Duration: 20 seconds or less

HINT: If there are traces of oil, remove it with gasoline before using the spark plug cleaner

8. RECONNECT HIGH-TENSION CORDS.
- Connect the high-tension cords to the spark plugs.





- Secure the high-tension cords with the cord clamps as shown in the illustration.