Spark Plug Replacement

SPARK PLUG REMOVAL PROCEDURE






NOTICE: Observe the following service precautions:
^ Allow the engine to cool before removing the spark plugs. Attempting to remove spark plugs from a hot engine can cause the spark plugs to seize. This can damage the cylinder head threads.
^ Clean the spark plug recess area before removing the spark plug. Failure to do so can result in engine damage due to dirt or foreign material entering the cylinder head, or in contamination of the cylinder head threads. Contaminated threads may prevent proper seating of the new spark plug.
^ Use only the spark plugs specified for use in the vehicle. Do not install spark plugs that are either hotter or colder than those specified for the vehicle. Installing spark plugs of another type can severely damage the engine.

1. Turn the ignition OFF.
2. Remove the engine cover.
3. If you are replacing the engine right bank (rear) spark plugs, perform the following steps:
3.1. Remove the windshield wiper motor cover.
3.2. Rotate the engine for service access. Refer to Rotating the Engine for Service Access.

ROTATING THE ENGINE FOR SERVICE ACCESS.

^ TOOLS REQUIRED
- J41131 Engine Tilt Strap

1. Remove the throttle body air inlet duct.
2. Set the park brake.
3. Shift the transaxle into Neutral.
4. Remove the engine mount strut bolts. Swing the engine mount struts aside.





5. Install the J41131.
6. Rotate the engine forward for component access.
7. Tighten the J41131.
8. Remove the spark plug wire(s) from the spark plug(s). Refer to Spark Plug Wire Harness Replacement.
9. Remove the spark plug(s) from the engine.

SPARK PLUG INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
NOTICE: It is important to check the gap of all new and reconditioned spark plugs before installation. Pre-set gaps may have changed during handling. Use a round wire feeler gauge to be sure of an accurate check, particularly on used plugs. Installing plugs with the wrong gap can cause poor engine performance and may even damage the engine.

1. Gap the spark plug(s) to the specifications. Refer to Spark Plug Specifications. Specifications

NOTICE: Be sure plug threads smoothly into cylinder head and is fully seated. Use a thread chaser if necessary to clean threads in cylinder head. Cross-threading or failing to fully seat spark plug can cause overheating of plug, exhaust blow-by, or thread damage. Follow the recommended torque specifications carefully. Over or under-tightening can also cause severe damage to engine or spark plug.

2. Install the spark plug(s) to the engine.

Tighten
Tighten the spark plug(s) to 15 Nm (11 lb ft).

3. Install the spark plug wire(s) to the spark plug(s).
4. If you are replacing the engine right bank (rear) spark plugs, perform the following steps:
4.1. Return the engine to the proper position.
4.2. Install the windshield wiper motor cover.
5. Install the engine cover.