Spark Plug: Testing and Inspection

Spark Plugs

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: 10 M 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. (See step 3)
(c) Visually check the spark plug.
If the electrode is ..... OK
If the electrode is wet... Proceed to step 4
(d) Reinstall the spark plug. (See step 7)
3. Remove spark plugs.





Using a 16 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 plug:
ND: PK2OTR11
NGK: BKR6KPB11





5. Inspect electrode gaps.

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.

Air pressure:
Below 588 kPa (6 kgf/sq.cm, 85 psi)
Duration: 20 seconds or less

HINT: If there are traces of oil, remove it with gasoline before using the spark plug cleaner.

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

Torque: 18 N.m (180 kgf.cm, 13 ft.lbf)

8. Reinstall ignition coils.