Common questions

Can you Helicoil a spark plug hole?

Can you Helicoil a spark plug hole?

Spark plugs that haven’t been changed for a long time can become one with the cylinder head. Fortunately, it’s possible to repair damaged threads instead of scrapping the head. In fact, it may be possible to simply chase the old threads with a tap and clean them up. Or, as illustrated, you can insert a Helicoil.

When do you know you have a spark plug problem?

If the engine tries to turn over (even for a second) and dies, then you have spark. This would indicate the problem probably lies somewhere else (fuel, carburetor, valves, etc.). If the engine does not turn over at all, then there may be a problem with your ignition system.

What causes a spark plug to pop when idle?

Shiny or Glazed Porcelain: This occurs for two reasons, excessive idling or rich idle condition leaving heavy soot deposits. These deposits will burn and create excessive porcelain temps causing the glass to melt usually resulting in a down track popping through the exhaust..

Why do I need to replace spark plugs in my car?

These problems may also cause excessive fuel consumption, deposits on the cylinder head and oil dilution. Luckily, spark plugs are one of the easiest and most inexpensive engine components to replace.

Is it normal to have a spark plug gap?

Congratulations – If you see brownish or gray deposits on the electrode like this photo, and your electrode isn’t worn and the ground armature isn’t broke, your spark plug is Normal. You can go ahead and check the spark plug gap, and reinstall it.

Why is my spark plug not plugging in?

You could look around for another spark plug socket with skinnier walls. It is possible that plug does not match the others and you may need a different size socket. It would be very helpful to see the problem. As cigroller suggested, a photograph might get you up and running again.

What to do when your engine has no spark?

Insert a spark plug tester into the plug boot and ground it on a piece of metal on the engine. Finally, Have someone crank the engine and watch for spark. Remove one of the coils from the spark plug. Use an extra spark plug. A spark plug tester. Or even a screwdriver in the end of the coil.

Congratulations – If you see brownish or gray deposits on the electrode like this photo, and your electrode isn’t worn and the ground armature isn’t broke, your spark plug is Normal. You can go ahead and check the spark plug gap, and reinstall it.

What to look for when you remove a spark plug?

After you remove a spark plug and inspect it carefully, you will likely see one of these 7 Spark Plug conditions: Once you remove and examine the spark plug, look for any signs of visible damage; like a broken or worn electrode, terminal damage, or crack in the spark plug insulator.

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Ruth Doyle