Removal of spark plugs

No. Just make sure the ignition is switched off.

Make certain that you know which lead goes to which plug before you remove them.

Don't remove the leads by pulling on the wire, only pull the cap.

Use a proper spark plug socket.

Don't use an extension any longer than neccesary

Keep the socket absolutely in line with the plug to avoid snapping the plug off.

Double check the new plug is the correct type.

Check the plug gap with a feeler gauge.

If as I do you use copaslip or another grease on the threads, don't let it get on to any part of the plug other than the thread or plug seating.

If possible, tighten using a torque wrench set to the correct value for your vehicle.

If a torque wrench is not available, tighten by hand, then a further quarter turn if the plug has a sealing washer, or an eighth of a turn if it seals on a taper seat.

If you want to start maintaining your own car, consider checking if a local college has short courses.

HTH

Chris

I read that you should use dielectric grease on the ceramic part of the spark plug, to seal the plug to the wire boot. Where the heck do you find that stuff ? Also advises on using an anti seive lube on the thread of the spark plug.

No.

Take off just one lead at a time unless you've numbered them first. Keep the socket and extension in line with the plug so you don't snap the top off because they can undo suddenly and take you by surprise. Don't overtighten them when you put them back/replace them.

Si

Why? ;-)

You could, but just making sure it's clean and dry and the boot is in good nick will do.

Maplin, RS, farnell?

Copaslip. Like Chris Whelan said- above, on the threads only. Don't use too much.

It's hardly rocket science to get them back on in the right order even if you do f*ck it up, though.

I don't even have a problem with 8 leads. (9 if you include king lead)

But I do have 2 distributors, which simplifies things.

Especially when one doesn't appear to be firing at the moment. Reckon it's the rotor arm, so I'd better dig out my dremel.

"Pete M" wrote in message news:f3kl0l$cc1$ snipped-for-privacy@registered.motzarella.org...

Wow.

How many leads do you reckon you could handle?

Be honest now.

If it's an ancient car with a mechanical distributor, disturbing the LT side

If it's a modern car with electronic ignition, unintentional partial disconnection of a connector *could* cause damage to electronic components.

Chris

Great stuff, have printed that out :)

Not sure what type of spark plugs are in the car yet. Do you have any referece photos showing the difference of the sealing washer and taper seat type?

Gee Whizz ( snipped-for-privacy@privacy.net) gurgled happily, sounding much like they were saying :

Pffft. The one coming out that side of the coil goes to the cylinder on that side. The one coming out the other side of the coil goes to the other cylinder.

What's difficult about that?

SteveH ( snipped-for-privacy@italiancar.co.uk) gurgled happily, sounding much like they were saying :

I have exactly one distributor.

Between six cars and two motorbikes.