Gasoline and LPG engines run on a controlled explosion energy, which is controlled by a spark plug. Spark plugs deliver electric current from ignition, burning the fuel. It is a fundamental part of modern machines. Like anything else, spark plugs can be weak and it's relatively easy to replace them, with the right tools and the right way. See step 1 for more info.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Opening Old Spark Plugs
Step 1. Locate the spark plug on your engine (see user manual)
When you open the hood, you'll see a bunch of wires, 4-8 leading to different positions on the engine. The spark plug is in the engine, under the wire, with the cap protecting it.
- In a 4 cylinder engine, the spark plug will be on the top or side of the engine.
- On a 6-cylinder engine, the spark plug is at the top or side of the engine head, on a V6 and V8 engine the spark plug will be split in two on each side of the engine.
- Some engines have a cap that must be opened first to see the spark plug wire. You have to look at the manual and make sure where your spark plugs are, how many and how many gaps are appropriate, and the size of the key to open them. You should also mark each cable and its position so that it is not misplaced later. At this time, you can also check the spark plug wires for cracks if there are any.
Step 2. Let the engine cool down before opening the spark plug
If you are new to the engine, the spark plugs and engine parts can get very hot. Open when the engine is cool enough to touch. Meanwhile, prepare the equipment you need to replace the spark plugs. You will need:
- Socket wrench / spark plug wrench
- Extension rod
- Spark plug socket, usually found in the spark plug wrench
- Spark plug gap gauge, usually available at the auto parts store.
Step 3. Open the first spark plug
Pull the wire from the engine covering the spark plug by grasping it at the base and pulling carefully until the spark plug is visible. Do not shake the spark plug wire to remove it, because it will become loose or can damage the spark plug head. Insert the spark plug wrench with the extension rod to carefully remove the spark plug from its place.
- When you check the spark plugs to see if they need to be replaced, remove one spark plug and check for gaps. If it looks burnt, refit the spark plug to the proper tension and then go to the auto parts store to buy a spark plug, before you open all the other spark plugs. You have to open them one by one, so that the order doesn't change. ("Tip: number each spark plug wire so you don't forget the order"). Spark plugs fire in a clear sequence, incorrectly positioning the spark plug wires will make the engine lose power and can damage the engine.
- Remember, if you have to open all the spark plugs at once, try sticking some paper tape and marking each spark plug wire with a number so you can remember its position.
Step 4. Measure the spark plug gap
The clearance should be between 0.028-0.06 inches, with some tolerance, depending on the type of spark plug and the needs of your car. Currently, in general, spark plugs have been set according to the type of spark plug and the type of use, but it's still good if you check again. Refer to your car's manual to find out the optimum gap distance, use a measuring tool to measure the distance.
- If the spark plug gap is wider than it should be but the spark plug is still good and the gap is adjustable, you can adjust it by gently tapping the spark plug against the wood surface until it's the right distance, or you can just buy a new spark plug. Usually you have to replace spark plugs every 20,000 km, or according to your car's instructions. Spark plugs are inexpensive and good to replace them regularly.
- If you want to replace the spark plugs yourself, purchase the correct equipment, such as a throttle gauge. Usually this is an iron hoop to see if the spark plug electrodes are still close enough to fire properly. The caliper is better and more precise. Always buy the original device, a little more expensive but guaranteed quality.
Step 5. Check for wear of old spark plugs
It is normal for the spark plug to look dirty even if the spark plug is working fine. But you need to replace the spark plug if you see white dirt around the electrodes, or you see burn marks or missing electrodes..
If the spark plug is bent or broken, you may have a mechanical problem with the engine and you should take it to a repair shop without further delay
Method 2 of 2: Installing New Spark Plugs
Step 1. Purchase a suitable replacement spark plug
You can look at your car's manual or a book at an auto parts store to find the right spark plug for the make and model of your car, as well as the year of manufacture. There are hundreds of combinations of spark plugs and sizes, ranging in value from $2-15, made of platinum, yttrium, iridium and so on. Spark plugs made of expensive metal will usually last longer. If you are not sure, ask the seller at the auto parts store, or to the repair shop to get original spark plugs for your car.
- Usually, just use the same spark plug with what is used now. Don't replace with cheaper spark plugs and don't bother changing something that's already working. Car manufacturers have good reasons why spark plugs are used, so think simple and just look for the same spark plugs whenever possible. Check the manual or ask your local dealer.
- You can also buy spark plugs with fixed or adjustable gaps, so it's up to you if you want to check the spark plugs regularly and make adjustments. But you have to make sure the gap is in accordance with the specifications of your car. If you check it yourself, you'll know. Take it out of the package and you can see for yourself the gap.
Step 2. Try cleaning around the threads before you insert the new spark plug
When you replace spark plugs, this is also a good opportunity to check the spark plug wires for damage or cracks, and also clean around the terminals of those wires. Use a wire brush or air from the compressor to clean the ends of the spark plug wires for a clean and smooth connection. Replace spark plug wires if necessary.
Step 3. Insert a new spark plug and tighten it with a spark plug wrench
Using a spark plug wrench, remove each spark plug from the engine, and replace it with a new one. Tighten a little (about 1/8 turn again, after you turn it by hand to maximum) Do not tighten too tightly as this can damage the threads on the cylinder head and repairing it will be expensive. Remember to install the spark plug wires in the same position as before.
Step 4. Try to lubricate the spark plug before installing
Apply a drop of lubricating fluid to the spark plug thread if you are installing it on an aluminum engine. This liquid will prevent reactions to dissimilar metals. You can also use dielectric silicone compound on the inside of the spark plug cap for easy removal at a later date. Pull the spark plug cap back and make sure it fits into the tip of the spark plug carefully, so as not to damage it.
Tips
- New cars can have hard-to-reach spark plugs, so first look at all the positions of the spark plugs, where they are. Try changing the spark plug in a difficult position first.
- To ensure that the spark plug is not too tight, use a torque wrench and tighten it to the specifications of your car. This information can be found in the manual or ask your car repair shop.
- Use a spark plug wrench (with a magnet) instead of a regular wrench to make sure you don't drop the spark plug after removing it. If dropped, the gap distance can change, so you have to reset it or even replace it.
- Make sure that when you replace the spark plug, nothing will fall into the spark plug hole. Use the compressor to clean all the dirt before you open the spark plug. If dirt gets into it, first try starting the engine without a spark plug so that the piston pressure can throw the dirt out of the hole. (keep your distance from the car engine and keep children away from it)
- You usually don't need to check the clearance on new spark plugs, but it's fine to do so.
- Pull the spark plug cap on the insulator, not the wire, you can damage the wire if you pull on the wire.
- Even if you don't like repairing cars, it's wise to buy a repair manual.
- If the engine starts with a dead spark plug, there will be a flood of gasoline. The engine will take a full minute to burn the fuel that is under the spark plug, and will run normally again.
- Double check the model and type of spark plug. Usually spark plugs have random codes, such as "5245" or "HY-2425" etc. which can make you misread. Write down the model and double check before buying. Small mistakes can waste your time and money.
Warning
- Let the engine cool before you open the spark plug. Spark plugs can get very hot and scald your skin.
- Keep small children away from your work area and wear eye protection.
