How to Change Spark Plugs

Changing spark plugs is simple and can be done with simple hand tools. You need to change spark plugs because they wear out over time. When they wear out they create a less powerful spark or no spark at all, which reduces gas mileage and decreases horse power. They wear because of use or for other reasons that indicate engine problems.

A normally worn spark plug has a light tan or gray deposits on the firing tip. A carbon fouled spark plug will have soft sooty black deposits on the firing tip and may indicate improperly tuned vehicle. You should take it in to a mechanic. An oil fouled spark plug indicates an engine with worn piston and\or bad valve seals allowing excessive oil to enter the chamber. You should take it in to a mechanic so they can look at it. If something looks wrong with the plugs, it usually means something is wrong with the engine.

Make sure you buy the right spark plugs for your vehicle. You can find what plugs to buy in your owner's manual or when you buy the plugs tell the salesman your vehicles make model and year. Before you leave the store it is a good idea to check the plugs for and damage that might occur during shipping and storage.

Tools you will need for changing spark plugs are spark plug gap tool, spark plug socket, ratchet, and extension. Before you change the plugs check the gap to make sure it is right, you can find the right gap in your owner's manual. You also need to make sure the area around the spark plug is clean to make sure nothing gets in the engine when the spark plug is out, if something does get in there it could ruin the engine. To change the spark plugs follow these steps.

• Remove the spark plug wires from the spark plugs. They just pull off no twisting or tools needed.

• Make sure the area around the spark plugs is clean.

• Take out the old spark plugs. For this you will need the spark plug socket, ratchet, and extension.

• Check the old plugs for any signs of engine problems.

• Check the gap in the new spark plugs. You will need the spark plug gap tool for this.

• Screw in the new spark plugs. Do not over tighten, if you do and strip the treads you will ruin your cylinder heads. Tighten them as much as you can with your fingers then use the ratchet and tighten it about half a turn.

• Put the spark plug wires back on the spark plugs. They snap on no tools required.

• Then start your vehicle to make sure it is running right.