Never Cleaned Your Spark Plug? Here’s How To Do It in One Weekend
Are you having trouble starting your car? It might be time to check your spark plugs. Spark plugs are small but mighty — they help ignite the fuel in your car and are the heart of your engine’s ignition system. Cleaning your spark plugs can help your car run more smoothly and efficiently, but it can be a daunting task for the inexperienced.
If you’re a car enthusiast, then you should definitely know how to clean a spark plug yourself — it will save you time and money, and you’ll be able to do it yourself with confidence. This post will provide you with a comprehensive guide to cleaning a spark plug in one weekend. We’ll tell you what tools you need, how to remove the spark plug, and how to clean and replace it.
What Types of Spark Plugs Can Be Cleaned?
Certain spark plugs are able to be cleaned, so it is important to first ensure that your spark plug is one of them. Spark plugs used in gasoline engines that are 14mm in size can typically be cleaned, whereas their smaller cousins used in small engines and lawnmowers typically cannot be cleaned.
Gathering Supplies
You will need to gather several supplies for cleaning your spark plug correctly in order to avoid any mishaps or inconveniences. Some of the essential items include socket wrench, rubber gloves, shop towels, brake cleaner, and emery cloth. All these items should be available in your local automotive store or online.
Removing the Spark Plug
Before you start any cleaning process, it’s always best to refer to the manufacturer’s manual or instructions on the spark plug box. Once you have the right tools and know what not to do (such as using any other type of tool than the socket wrench), start by loosening the spark plug using the socket wrench and remove it from your engine.
Cleaning the Spark Plug
After removing the spark plug, begin cleaning it with shop towels and brake cleaner. If there are any stubborn carbon deposits still clinging onto parts of the spark plug, use an emery cloth with caution as too much pressure can damage the core portion of the spark plug. Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned all areas around and on top of the spark plug, wipe off all remaining residue with shop towels once again for a thorough cleanse.
Reinstalling the Spark Plug
Once you’ve completed all cleaning processes, you are ready to reinstall your spark plug back into its original position on your engine block. Again, refer to instructions from your manufacturer manual instead of relying solely on general instructions before tightening and torquing down the sparkplug with your socket wrench – this step is necessary for proper fitment and risk-free operation of your vehicle engine so make sure that you have a high-quality mechanic tool set on hand.
Finishing Touches
It’s always best practice to double-check whether or not you have reinstalled your sparkplug correctly after finishing up this project – make sure everything is properly tightened and secure so that no problems arise during usage down the road! It should take no more than a few minutes time to complete one last check – afterward, you will be all set with a freshly cleaned and reinstalled spark plug!
Cleaning a spark plug is a relatively easy process if done correctly. It’s important to use the right tools and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe, effective cleaning. With the right supplies and a bit of patience, you can successfully clean your spark plugs over the weekend and keep your car running smoothly and efficiently. Keeping your spark plugs clean is essential for keeping your car in good condition, and the return investment is invaluable. Plus, you can take pride in a job well done knowing that you’ve done it all yourself.