Spark Plug: Testing and Inspection

SPARK PLUGS INSPECTION

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

1. INSPECT ELECTRODE



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

Standard correct insulation resistance: 10M 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.
- Visually check the spark plug.



^ If the electrode is dry ... OK
^ If the electrode is wet... Proceed to step 3
- Reinstall the spark plug.

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

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

Recommended spark plug:
- ND PQ20R
- NGK: BCPR6EP-11




4. INSPECT ELECTRODE GAP
- If the gap is greater than maximum, replace the spark plug.

Maximum gap for used spark plug: 1.3 mm (0.051 in.)
Correct gap for new spark plug: 1.1 mm (0.043 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 the used plug.

5. CLEAN SPARK PLUGS



- If the electrode has traces of wet carbon, allow it to dry and then clean with a spark plug cleaner.
HINT: If there are traces of oil, remove it with gasoline before using the spark plug cleaner.

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

6. REINSTALL SPARK PLUGS
- Using a 16 mm plug wrench, install the 4 spark plugs.

Torque: 18 Nm (180 kgf.cm, 13 ft.lb)

7. RECONNECT HIGH-TENSION CORDS TO SPARK PLUGS