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. DISCONNECT HIGH-TENSION CORDS FROM SPARK PLUGS.
2. INSPECT ELECTRODE INSULATION.



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

Standard correct insulation resistance: 10 M Ohms or more

- If the resistance is less than specified, proceed to step 3.

NOTE: 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 3)



- Visually check the spark plug.
- If the electrode is dry ... OK
- If the electrode is wet... Proceed to step 4
- Reinstall the spark plug. (See step 7)

3. REMOVE SPARK PLUGS.



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

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

Recommended spark plug:
ND: PK2OR11
NGK: BKR8EP11

5. INSPECT ELECTRODE GAP.

Maximum electrode gap for used spark plug: 1.3 mm (0.051 in.)

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





Correct electrode 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.

6. 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 (85 psi)
Duration: 20 seconds or less

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

Torque: 20 Nm (200 kg.cm, 15 ft.lb)

8. RECONNECT HIGH-TENSION CORDS TO SPARK PLUGS.