So, let's get down to step-by-step instructions for replacing spark plugs.
- Step 1: Consider the fact that the operation of the spark plugs was extremely exhausting. If you are changing spark plugs for the first time, plan 3-4 hours after the engine has stopped (let it cool down). Be prepared that changing spark plugs is much more difficult than changing air filters or wheels.
- Step 2: Refer to the recommendations in your vehicle's operating manual. Check the location of your vehicle's spark plugs, the number of spark plugs, and the clearance and size of the slot needed to fill them. You can also find the clearance information on the car's bonneted emission label.
- Step 3: Visit the auto parts store. By searching in the appropriate manual or by asking a specialist, find the correct spark plugs for your vehicle. You should also purchase a socket wrench, spark plug receptacles (with gaskets), and extension or swivel connections to get to the recessed spark plug.
- Step 4: Check (from the handbook, the information on the packaging or with a specialist) whether the spark plugs should be with a gap. Some modern spark plugs have no gap, some have different spark plugs depending on the number of cylinders, their location, etc.
- Step 5: Park your car, turn off the engine, open the hood and let the engine cool down for a few hours. WARNING: After the car engine has been running for a long enough time, the spark plugs may be the hottest part of the engine. The engine will only take a few hours to cool down, but it will take at least a week to heal a burn if you hurry to get to work. Especially if the engine has an aluminum head, let it cool down to room temperature to avoid self-harm.
- Step 6: Take, if necessary!, a wire gauge, a spark plug gap measuring tool, and adjust the distance between the two electrodes. The space between the electrodes is exactly where the spark is generated. One electrode has an L-shaped shape (hook), the other electrode - the central electrode - is right in front of the first electrode. Set the gap between the two electrodes from 0.028 to 0.060 inches.
- Step 7: Assemble the tools and new plugs (possibly in the tool tray). Remember in which direction you turned the socket wrench when you unscrew the spark plug, as the key may not be visible when installing new spark plugs.
- Step 8: Check whether the spark plug matches the socket wrench gasket. If new spark plugs stick to the rubber gasket, consider removing the rubber gasket with a screwdriver. To ensure that the spark plug does not fall out of the socket wrench and is easily released from it as soon as it is installed in the engine, it can be taped to the key. Otherwise, you will need to use pliers to release the key after installing a new spark plug.
- Step 9: Determine the location of the spark plug distribution wires (armor lines) (using your vehicle's operating manual or repair instructions). The number of wires will be equal to the number of spark plugs present in the engine. Often the wires are red or black and are evenly distributed on opposite sides of the engine.
- Step 10: Using adhesive tape, mark each of these conduits at the point where they are connected. Don't rely on memory: you can be distracted and easily forget about the wiring, in which case the motor will run intermittently due to the crossed wires, which is one of the 5 main signs of motor malfunction. In an engine with 8 cylinders, it is almost impossible to guess the combination of wires. You will need to consult a specialist for this, or you will need to refer to an automotive wiring tutorial.
- Step 11: Remove each spark plug cable by pulling the covers (to avoid damaging the cable wires). The covers should respond to intense scrolling or pulling on themselves, so be careful not to damage your fingers.
- Step 12: Clean all debris around the spark plug using compressed air under pressure or a special brush.
- Step 13: Using the spark plug key, remove all the spark plugs from the engine and replace each with a new spark plug. Do not overtighten the spark plug, as a general rule, only 1/16 turn of the key is enough after you have tightened the spark plug with your fingers.
- Step 14: Install the spark plug cables in the correct place and remove the adhesive tape.
- Step 15: Remove all tools from the engine compartment (beware of moving belts), close the bonnet and start the car engine.