Replacing Spark Plugs And Spark Plug Wires

Replacing Spark Plugs And Spark Plug Wires

A few things to remember when replacing your spark plugs and spark plug wires.

• Use only OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or better replacement spark plug wires and spark plugs.
  
• Never change spark plugs on an engine that has not cooled completely. This may cause burns and damage to the engine head, as most engine heads and engine blocks are now made from aluminum.
  
• The easiest way to change your own spark plugs and spark plug wires is to change one at a time. Even though some replacement plug wires come already numbered, marked or designated to match the plug wire your are replacing, some do not. Take it one at a time to ensure that you're replacing the plugs properly.
  
• Before you start removing any plug wires or spark plugs, gap all of your spark plugs to the recommended gap using a gapping tool. Most of the time these gapping tools are given to you when you purchase spark plugs and spark plug wires. If not, ask the salesman or vendor for one.
• Lay your plug wires out so you can reach them when ready. Not all the spark plug wires are the same, so you will need to pick the right one if they are not numbered or marked for replacement.
  
• Do not jump from side to side or from front to rear, as this may cause you to get confused.
  

• Start by removing the first spark plug wire. Do this by removing the plug wire from the spark plug first, then trace the plug wire to the cap or coil, which ever it is connected to. Careful not to remove any other wire.
  
• Now that you have removed your first wire completely, with tools in hand, remove the spark plug. Always turn counter clockwise and recall the common saying, "righty tighty, left loosy".
  
• Once the spark plug is removed, look at it to see if it has been damaged or fouled in anyway. If it is, you may want to seek a reputable mechanic for professional advice. If not you can continue.
  
• It's time to tighten the spark plug. With tools in hand, turn 1/4 turn or until snug or just barely tight. Be careful not to overtighten as this may cause the spark plug to enter into the pistons path or cause damage to the threads of the engine head or the spark plug.
  
• Replace the plug wire with the designated replacement plug wire, making sure it is the right length.
  
• Repeat for every spark plug and every spark plug wire. Remember, finish one side, then move to the other.