QA

Quick Answer: How To Remove Spark Plugs

Removing the Old Spark Plugs Make sure to use the custom tools to remove a coil when needed. After the wire or coil is removed, use your torque wrench with the spark plug socket to remove the spark plug. Place the socket around the spark plug and turn the socket counterclockwise. The spark plug should unscrew easily.

Do I need a special tool to remove spark plugs?

You’ll need just a few tools to change out the spark plugs on your car. The most important tool is a socket wrench with an extension and a spark plug socket. Spark plug sockets come in two sizes: 5/8 inches and 13/16 inches. Most spark plug sockets have a rubber insert that holds the plug snugly in place.

What size socket do you need to remove a spark plug?

Most spark plugs require a 5/8″ (16mm) size spark plug socket. This refers to the size of the flats on the spark plug that are in contact with the socket. This spark plug requires the 5/8″ spark plug socket, which will probably fit a 3/8 ratchet extension.

Can you remove spark plugs by hand?

Gently grasp a spark plug wire by the boot (the place where it connects to the spark plug), twist it, and pull it straight out. When the ratchet turns freely, finish the job by removing the ratchet handle and turning the socket by hand until the plug is free from the engine.

Can I use wd40 to remove spark plugs?

Ensure the engine is off and cool and spray WD-40 Multi-Use Product on a clean, soft cloth and rub over the chosen area or spray the spark plug wires and the inside and outside of your distributor cap with WD-40. You can also use it to ease the removal of spark plugs, especially if there is any rust or corrosion.

What are the 2 common spark plug socket sizes?

There are two most common hex sizes- 5/8” and 13/16”. However, there are spark plugs with a hex size of as small as 8mm. We are talking about the size of the spark plug here, not the thread of it. And yes, the spark plug size also matters.

What are the 3 spark plug sizes?

Spark Plug Guide – from Cyclepedia There are currently three spark plug thread diameter and pitch sizes used on motorcycles and ATVs: 10 mm x 1.0, 12 mm x 1.25 and 14 mm x 1.25. There are currently two thread reaches (lengths) used: 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch. Never use a spark plug of the wrong reach.

How can you tell when a spark plug is bad?

What signs are there that your spark plugs are failing? Your car is a rough starter. Your car is a rough idler. Your engine will sometimes misfire. Your engine surges. Your fuel consumption is higher than usual. Your car isn’t accelerating as it should.

Can I spray carb cleaner into spark plug hole?

Q: Can I spray carb cleaner into the spark plug hole? Yes, you can spray carb cleaner into spark plug tubes to dissolve hardened debris and loose materials in the well and afterward take them out using an air gun.

What is the difference between a spark plug socket and a regular socket?

Spark plug sockets are just what they sound like—they are for removing or fitting a spark plug into an engine. Spark plug sockets are much longer than standard sockets. This type of socket will also frequently come with a rubber insert that prevents the spark plug from becoming damaged while the wrench is working.

What is spark plug socket?

Spark plug sockets are used to fit or remove spark plugs from engines. They will often have a foam rubber insert that sits inside the socket and serves to help hold the spark plug snugly, and prevent it from being damaged by the socket’s internal walls.

How often should spark plugs be changed?

And as a general rule, we recommend replacing spark plugs every 30,000 miles, which falls in line with most manufacturers’ recommendations. You can check your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for information specific to your make and model vehicle.

What is a spark plug wrench used for?

The spark plug wrench is used to remove the spark plug from the engine.

How do I know what size spark plug I need?

The different types of spark plugs can seem overwhelming at first, but the simple way to find out what kind of spark plug you need is by checking your owner’s manual. The manual will specify the right plugs for your vehicle.

Are spark plug sockets all the same size?

A spark plug socket is basically a variation on a standard socket wrench. Like a regular socket wrench, spark plug sockets come in different interchangeable sizes that can be attached to a wrench handle for maximum torque.

How long are spark plugs good for?

A standard copper spark plug has an average life span of 10,000-20,000 miles. Silver plugs, used for older vehicles, can last up to 20,000 miles. Expensive iridium spark plugs or platinum spark plugs can last 60,000 miles. Extended life spark plugs or long life spark plugs can last 100,000 miles.

Should you disconnect the battery when changing spark plugs?

It’s also good practice to disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery when working on anything electrical. Be sure to let your car’s engine cool thoroughly before replacing your spark plugs. This will make removal of the plugs and the spark plug wire or ignition coil boot easier.