Spark Plug and Wire Replacement

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Spark Plug and Wire Replacement

Written by: Terseoman

     Here's a simple DIY. Remember to check the plugs often to ensure proper spark and function.
     NOTE: I personally found the NGK V-POWER plugs to be the best for me.
     SPARK PLUGS:
     BKR5EYA11 for NGK
     K16R-U11 for ND

     Torque Specifications: 18 N-m / 180 kgf-cm / 13 ft-lbs

     GAPPING:
     .043 in / 1.1 mm
     The easiest thing to do is buy pregapped plugs.

I. INSTALLING SPARK PLUGS

     IMPORTANT!!! MAKE SURE THE ENGINE IS COLD! Because the head is aluminum in our cars, it expands and contracts in the heat and cold. By taking the plugs out while the motor is hot, there is a chance you won't get the plugs back in because of 'Thermal Expansion'.

     Unplug the spark plug wires by grabbing the top of them and pulling up. Watch out not to pull by the actual wire to prevent it from ripping out.

     Using the 5/8" spark plug socket bit with an extension, start taking the spark plugs out.

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     Closely look at the plugs and see what condition they are in by checking the chart in SECTION II.

     When reinstalling the plugs, I like to put a SMALL drop of oil on the threads to prevent the siezing of the plug in the threads. The easiest way is to just take a drop off the dip stick.

II. CHECKING SPARK PLUGS

     Here is a chart that will tell you what condition the spark plugs are in. Watch out, It's nerve-wrecking.

III. REPLACING SPARK PLUG WIRES

Take one wire off at a time and replace it as you take it out. This will minimize any confusion between the old plug wires and the new ones. This will also ensure the the wires don't accidentally get switched.

Since the plugs are already out, you just have to disconnect them from the distributor. You will notice that there is a plastic locking clip on the end of the wire that connects it to the distributor. Unclip the plastic piece, and its as easy as pulling it out. Once again, watch out that you DO NOT pull by the wires.

Before putting the distributor end of the new wires into the distributor, use some di-electric grease on the prong to prevent corrosion. The grease should be included with the wires when you buy them. If not, go out and buy a tube of it. While you're under the hood, put some di-electric grease on the battery terminals too.

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