Do You Know How To Change A Spark Plug?

With today's modern fuel injection changing your spark plugs is few and far between, that day will come that you will need to know how to properly change a spark plug on your boat. That is where we come in. Here are some tips and tricks for changing your spark plugs.

Choose The Right Plug

To short or to long, or even not the right heat range could make for a costly mistake. "Close enough" will not work when installing spark plugs. The best way to figure out the right spark plug is to contact the manufacturer. 

Using The Right Wrench

Spark plugs have a protective foam cover over a  porcelain tip. Using a standard socket wrench could crack the porcelain. which is not what you want to happen. You will need a steady hand, socket extension and a tight griping socket.

Using The Right Torque

One of the most common mistakes is over tightening of the spark plug. If you over tighten the spark plug when reinstalling it, your could strip the cylinder which would be another costly mistake. If that happens, you would have to remove the cylinder have it re-threaded. The average torque wrench setting should be between 18-20 pounds per square inch. Make sure to check with the manufacturer before use.

Using The Right Gap

Gap: The distance the spark has to jump from the plug to the engine. If you have a gapless engine, then this is one step that you do not have to worry with. If your sparks need to be gapped, I would suggest investing in feeler gages. The gap setting can be found on the emissions plate of the engine or in the owner's manual

Quick Tip: As you are changing your plug, check the others. Look for water droplets, aluminum bits, or a white substance on them. If you find any, take it to your dealer before you head out again. Those are all signs of a bigger problem in the works. It is better to get it checked out before it becomes a problem.

Now that you know how to change your spark plugs, don't let the fear of what might go wrong stop you from enjoy a day relaxing on the water. If you are looking for some more tips on the subject, check these out.