|
|
 |
Replacing your spark plugs
Note: some warranties require that
you have documentation of all maintenance done to your vehicle - it may
be advisable to have the work done by a professional for proper warranty
documentation.
Tools that may be required to do the job:
- 3/8 drive Spark plug socket, extension and ratchet
- New set of spark plugs
- Spark plug gaping gauge
- Rag or brush
- Length of 5/16" vacuum line about 12" long
Why replace your spark plugs?
Spark plugs are one of the most important parts of your
vehicle's engine. Your spark plugs should be replaced every
2 years or 30,000 miles to maintain maximum fuel economy and
peak engine performance. This may vary depending on the make
and model of your vehicle. Some models will go as far as
100,000 miles before the plugs need replacement. Replacing
your spark plugs isn't that difficult but, be sure to read
all the instructions listed below.
Before you start:
Get all the tools you'll need and gap your spark plugs. The
proper spark plug gap can be found on the engine
specifications decal under the hood. Get the right plugs for
your car. I always recommend using the brand of plugs
originally installed in your car from the factory. For Ford
products they are Motorcraft , General Motors products use
AC Delco and in Chrysler products they are Champion. In
Japanese cars I would use NGK and in German cars I would use
Bosch. Consult a parts guide to get the correct spark plugs.
A cross reference will not often get you the exact plug you
need.
Okay, let's get to work.
- Always change your spark plugs with the
engine cold. Grabbing the plug wire by the boot,
carefully pull the spark plug wire from the end
of the spark plug. Do not pull the wire itself.
If the boot sticks, twist the boot left and
right and pull the plug wire off. I would
recommend changing the plugs one at a time to
avoid mixing up the spark plug wires.
- If you have it, use compressed air to blow
any dirt away from the spark plug area.
Otherwise, clean off the old plug and the area
around it with a rag or small brush. This will
help prevent any foreign material from falling
into the cylinder when the plug is removed.
- Remove the plug by turning it
counterclockwise with a spark plug socket and
ratchet. Once you crack it loose, spin it out
about three or four turns. Then remove the
socket and remove it completely by hand. If you
can't reach it, slip the 5/16" vacuum line over
the spark plug and turn it out with that.
- If you haven't done so yet, gap the new plug
with a spark plug gap gauge (The proper gap can
be found on the engine specifications decal
under the hood). Slip the correct thickness wire
or feeler between the inner and outer electrodes
at the tip of the plug. A flat gauge is good;
the wire type is better. When the plugs are
properly gapped, the wire or feeler should slide
between the electrodes with a slight drag. If
the gap is incorrect, gently bend the outer
electrode slightly until the correct gap is
achieved. Make sure that the outer electrode is
centered directly over the inner electrode. If
it's not, align the two by gently bending the
outer electrode
- Take a good look at the cylinder head
threads. They should be in good condition,
clean, and free of dirt and debris. This new
spark plug should freely screw into the cylinder
head by hand. Any binding of the plug is an
indication that there's a problem. Remove the
plug and inspect the threads.
- Insert the plug into the spark plug hole by
hand and turn it clockwise until it's snug. I
always attach a short piece of 5/16" rubber hose
to the top of the plug and use it as an
extension to install the new plugs
- After installing the plug by hand as far as
it will go, firmly tighten it with a spark plug
wrench or socket. It's a good idea to use a
torque wrench, if one is available, to ensure
that the plug's properly seated. Be very
careful; do not over tighten the spark plugs.
Remember, you'll get an accurate torque reading
only if the spark plug and cylinder head threads
are clean and dry.
- Reattach the plug wire to the new plug. Use
a twisting motion on the boot until it's firmly
seated on the top of the plug. You will feel and
hear a click as the wire clamps onto the spark
plug.
Repeat these same steps for the other plugs. If
you take your time this is a fairly easy job and
will probably take you about an hour, depending on
how many plugs your vehicle has. |
|
| Of course - you can always
take your car in to have the oil changed.
Some find these directions to difficult or
dangerous and better left to the
professionals. At least now you know how to
do it, and you can decide which is best for
you. |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
