How to Replace Spark Plugs

The overall performance of the vehicle is based on the condition of the spark plugs. If spark plugs are poorly gapped or old enough, you vehicle might not get the required momentum. Gas mileage also decreases. You can save a big amount by replacing the spark plugs on your own. Replacing spark plugs will definitely improve the performance of your vehicle.

Required Items

Tuning up an engine requires few tools and devices which you need to have in your garage at all the times. If you don’t have, purchase them for convenience. The following tools are required to replace the spark plugs:

• Spark plug sockets
• Socket extension (12-inch)
• Ratchet wrench
• Replacement spark plugs (in case of aftermarket spark plugs, choose the compatible plugs with your engine)

Instructions

Follow these instructions to replace the spark plugs in your own garage. Remember you have some set patterns or order in which you have to change the spark plugs, must follow them.

• Open the front hood or engine hood and look for the spark plugs assembly. You can find them connected to the thick wires in a row across the top of the engine. Spark plugs position varies from vehicle to vehicle. For V8 engines, the spark plugs can be on either side of the engine bay. For four cylinder engine; plugs are arranged in a row.
• Don’t remove all the spark plugs one at a same time. You need to remove them one by one. Grab the plug and pull it out gently. Make sure that the plug doesn’t fall into the engine. Unfasten the plug and remove it instantly from the engine.
• You have to use the right ratchet or socket set to unfasten the spark plug from its assembly.
• Take a new spark plug and check the ceramic (porcelain) seal carefully. It should not be damaged or cracked. Connect the wires on the new plug in the same way they were connected on the old spark plug.
• If you want necessary changing in the spark plugs gap to raise the performance, adjust it at this point; otherwise leave it in the same position.
• After all the connections are set properly, fasten the spark plug to it receptacle with hand. Later fasten it with the socket extension. Never over tighten the spark plugs.
• You can repeat the same procedure to install the rest of the spark plugs.

Installing new spark plugs is easy and gives your vehicle a performance boost. It also improves the mileage of your vehicle. Following the above given instructions help you to replace the spark plugs and also save you some reasonable bucks.