Spark Plug: Testing and Inspection
Spark Plug Inspection:
1. Inspect the Electrodes and Ceramic Insulator for:
- Worn or deformed Electrodes.
Improper Gap.
Oil Fouling.
Carbon Deposits.
Cracked Center Electrode Insulator.
- Damaged Gasket.
- Cracked Insulator.
Burned or worn Electrodes may be caused by:
- Advanced Ignition Timing.
- Loose Spark Plug.
- Plug heat range too low.
- Insufficient cooling.
Fouled Plug may be caused by:
- Retarded Ignition Timing.
- Oil in Combustion Chamber.
- Incorrect Spark Plug gap.
- Plug heat range too high.
- Excessive idling/low speed running.
- Clogged Air Cleaner Element.
- Deteriorated Ignition Coil or Ignition Wires.
Electrode Gap:
2. For Platinum Tip plug, do not adjust the gap; replace the spark plug if the gap is out of specifications or if the center Electrode is rounded.
NOTE: Use only the Spark Plugs listed.
3. Apply a small quantity of anti-seize compound to the Plug Threads before installing the plugs.
4. Screw the Plugs into the Cylinder Head finger-tight. Then torque them to 18 N.m (1.8 kg.m, 13 lb.ft).