From time to time, you may find that the insulation around your spark plug wires develops a break. This doesn’t happen very often, but it’s worth taking a look at your spark plug wires from time to time as part of your regular car maintenance.
If your wires are cracked, it can cause a spark to jump off of the wire and hit some metal under your car’s hood. This can also cause a weak spark in your engine’s cylinder, which will make the car run roughly and will negatively affect your gas mileage. In addition, it can cause damage to your catalytic converter.
To check your spark plug wires, start with your engine off. Look at the wire closely, starting at the end near the distributor. Work your way down to the end where the plug is. Bend the wire as you go to see if there are any cracks. You’ll also check the wires at the spark plug by pulling it off the plug and inspecting the end for any tears or cracks.
If your spark plug wires are damaged, it’s time to get new ones. You can install them yourself, or you can bring your car in to have them replaced. For more extensive vehicle repairs, visit your Lehigh Valley auto body shop today.
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If you are having trouble starting your car then it may be time to change your spark plugs. Spark plugs should be changed every 30,000 miles, so they are easy to forget about. Changing your spark plugs will require a spark plug gapping tool, a 3/8 ratchet, and possibly a ratchet extender if your spark plugs are difficult to reach. Make sure your car is off and completely cool before changing the plugs.
1. Locate the spark plugs on your engine. Keep in mind if your vehicle has a V-shaped engine then there will be spark plugs on both sides of the engine. You will see thick wires attached to the plugs – these are the spark plug wires.
2. Remove the spark plug wire by finding the rubber boot close to the plug and pulling. Pull only from the boot – pulling anywhere else on the wire could cause it to break.
3. Once the wire is removed, blow any debris that my be around the spark plug so that is does not fall in to the cylinder after the plug has been removed. Using the ratchet, turn the spark plug in a counter-clockwise direction until it comes out.
4. Each car has different specifications as to what kind of spark plugs they use. Make sure you have purchased the right spark plugs for your model. Remove the new spark plugs from the box and use the gapping tool to ensure they are gapped according to specifications.
5. Start by inserting the new plug into the cylinder and hand tighten. If there is any resistance, remove the plug and try again. This will avoid cross-threading.
6. Tighten the spark plug fully using your ratchet, and replace the spark plug wire. You will normally hear or feel a soft popping sound when the wire is fully attached.
7. Start your vehicle and make sure the engine is running. If not, check the wire connections again.
For larger vehicle issues and full collision repair, stop by your local Easton auto body repair shop today.
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