Spark Plug Replacement
 

1. Why would you want to do this?

This is part of a tune up. Regain lost MPG's due to dirty, worn plugs.

2. How long does this take?

~30 mins, taking your time.

3. Precautions?

Nothing really. If you just drove the car recently, then the spark plugs will be hot. If you do not have one, that is fine, just follow the directions and do not overtighten

4. What's needed?
New spark plugs
Spark plug gapping tool
Torque wrench
Ratchet with extensions
Spark plug socket (16mm)
Anti-seize compound
Cloth

Step 1 - Removing Spark Plug

Clean up area around spark plug wire.

Attachment 11949

Pull out spark plug wire.

Attachment 11950

Use spark plug socket with the ratchet to take out the spark plug, turn counter clock wise, they might be a little tight depending how long they have been in there.

Attachment 11951

Since I am not in need of new spark plugs at this time, I will be just cleaning them up, and re-installing.

Step 2 - Gapping the Spark Plug

Use the gap tool to gap the spark plugs to the recommended size. Each Honda engine is different. The gapper should slide between the electrodes with little drag, bend the side electrode only to set the right gap and be very careful not to crack or chip the porcelain insulator surrounding the center electrode.

Attachment 11952

Step 3 - Applying Anti-Seize and Re-installing Spark Plug

Apply a small amount of anti-seize to the threads of the spark plug. (Some spark plugs to not recommend anti-seize, see package for details)

Attachment 11953

Reinstall the spark plug by placing it into the spark plug socket and using your hands and the extensions to slowly turn the spark plug in. DO NOT USE FORCE IF THE SPARK PLUG IS NOT GOING IN, SLOWLY TAKE IT OUT AND TRY AGAIN. (If you force the spark plug in you might be cross threading the threads which will cost a lot to fix.)

After you have turned the spark plug as far as it can go with your hand, use a torque wrench to tighten the spark plug to spec. It will say in your manual how much you need to torque it to. If you do not have access to a torque wrench, tighten plugs a little more than hand tight.

Step - 4 Re-installing Spark Plug Wire & Repeat

Insert spark plug wire and press down.

Attachment 11954

You should be able to pull up slightly, and not have the spark plugs wires come out. You can also feel them "set" into place on the spark plug you just installed, too.

Repeat for remaining cylinders and then take it around the block for a test drive!