Spark Plug: Service and Repair

REMOVAL
The spark plugs are located below the coil rail assembly.
1. Prior to removing spark plug, spray compressed air around spark plug hole and area around spark plug. This will help prevent foreign material from entering combustion chamber.
2. The coil rail assembly must be removed to gain access to any/all spark plug. Refer to Ignition Coil Removal/installation.
3. Remove spark plug from cylinder head using a quality socket with a rubber or foam insert.
4. Inspect spark plug condition. Refer to Spark Plug Conditions.

CLEANING
The plugs may be cleaned using commercially available spark plug cleaning equipment. After cleaning, file center electrode flat with a small point file or jewelers file before adjusting gap.

CAUTION: Never use a motorized wire wheel brush to clean spark plugs. Metallic deposits will remain on spark plug insulator and will cause plug misfire.

ADJUSTMENT

Setting Spark Plug Gap - Typical:

Check spark plug gap with a gap gauge tool. If the gap is not correct, adjust it by bending ground electrode. Never attempt to adjust gap by bending center electrode.

INSTALLATION
Special care should be taken when installing spark plugs into cylinder head spark plug wells. Be sure plugs do not drop into plug wells as ground straps may be bent resulting in a change in plug gap, or electrodes can be damaged.

Always tighten spark plugs to specified torque. Over tightening can cause distortion resulting in a change in spark plug gap or a cracked porcelain insulator.
1. Start spark plug into cylinder head by hand to avoid cross threading.
2. Tighten spark plugs to 35-41 Nm (26-30 ft. lbs.) torque.
3. Install ignition coil(s). Refer to Ignition Coil Removal/installation.