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. REMOVE IGNITION COILS

2. 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:
(a) Quickly race the engine to 4,000 rpm 5 times.
(b) Remove the spark plug.



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

3. REMOVE SPARK PLUGS
- Using a 1 6 mm plug wrench, remove the 6 spark plugs from the RH and LH cylinder heads.

4. VISUALLY INSPECT SPARK PLUGS



- Check the spark plug for thread damage and insulator damage.
- If abnormal, replace the spark plug.

Recommended spark plugs:
- ND: PK20TR11
- NGK: BKR6EKPB11

5. INSPECT ELECTRODE GAPS




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

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

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 (6 kgf/sq.cm, 85 psi)
Duration: 20 seconds or less

7. REINSTALL SPARK PLUGS
- Using a 16 mm plug wrench, install the 6 spark plugs to the RH and LH cylinder heads.

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

8. REINSTALL IGNITION COILS