Spark Plug: Testing and Inspection

NOTICE:
- Never use a wire brush for cleaning.
- Never attempt to adjust the electrode gap on used spark plug.
- Spark plug should be replaced every 100,000 km (60,000 miles).

1. REMOVE NO.3 TIMING BELT COVERS.

2. DISCONNECT HIGH-TENSION CORDS FROM SPARK PLUGS.

3. INSPECT ELECTRODE.
- Using a megger (insulation resistance meter), measure the insulation resistance.

Correct insulation resistance: 10 M Ohms or more

- If the resistance is less than specified, proceed to step 4.

HINT: If a megger is not available, the following simple method of inspection provides fairly accurate results.

Simple Method:
- Quickly race the engine to 4,000 rpm 5 times.
- Remove the spark plug. (See step 4)

- Visually check the spark plug.
If the electrode is...Okay
If the electrode is wet...Proceed to step 5
- Reinstall the spark plug. (See step 8)

4. REMOVE SPARK PLUGS.
- Using a 16 mm plug wrench, remove the spark plugs.

5. VISUALLY INSPECT SPARK PLUGS.
- Check the spark plug for thread damage and insulator damage.
- If abnormal, replace the spark plug.

Recommended spark plug:
ND: PK2OR8
NGK: BKR6EP-8

6. INSPECT ELECTRODE GAP.

Maximum electrode gap for used spark plug:
1.0 mm (0.039 in.)

If the gap is greater than maximum, replace the spark plug.

Correct electrode gap for new spark plug:
0.8 mm (0.031 in.)

NOTICE:
- If adjusting the gap of a new spark plug, bend only the base of the ground electrode.
- Do not touch the tip. Never attempt to adjust the gap on a used plug.

7. CLEAN SPARK PLUGS.
- If the electrode has traces of wet carbon, allow it to dry and then clean with a spark plug cleaner.

Air pressure:
Below 588 kPa (6 kgf/sq. cm, 85 psi)
Duration: 20 seconds or less

HINT: If there are traces of oil, remove it with gasoline before using the spark plug cleaner.

8. REINSTALL SPARK PLUGS.
- Using a 16 mm plug wrench, install the spark plug.

Torque: 17.5 N.m (180 kgf.cm, 13 ft.lb.)

9. RECONNECT HIGH-TENSION CORDS TO SPARK PLUGS.
10. REINSTALL NO.3 TIMING BELT COVERS.