Iridium spark plugs are designed to last longer and provide better performance than traditional copper spark plugs. When replacing iridium spark plugs, it is important to gap them correctly. The correct gap for most iridium spark plugs is between .044 and .055 inches.
To properly gap an iridium spark plug, use a feeler gauge to measure the distance between the electrode and the ground strap. If the gap is too large or too small, adjust it by bending the electrode with a pair of pliers.
- Remove the spark plug from the engine using a socket wrench
- Inspect the spark plug for any damage or debris
- If necessary, clean the spark plug with a wire brush and replace if damaged
- Gap the spark plug by gently bending and twisting the ground electrode until desired gap is achieved (usually
- 044 to
- 049 inches)
- Reinsert the spark plug into the engine and tighten with a socket wrench until snug (do not overtighten)
Spark Plug Gap Tool
A spark plug gap tool is a simple and essential tool for anyone who owns a vehicle. This tool is used to adjust the gap between the electrodes on a spark plug, and is important for maintaining optimal engine performance. While the average do-it-yourselfer may not need this tool very often, it’s still a good idea to have one on hand in case you ever need to make an adjustment.
Here’s what you need to know about spark plug gap tools.
The first thing to understand about spark plugs is that they need to be periodically replaced – usually every 30,000 miles or so. When changing your plugs, it’s also important to check and adjust the gap if necessary.
The ideal distance between the electrodes will vary depending on your specific engine, but is typically around 0.028 inches. If the gap is too wide, it can cause misfires; too narrow and the plugs may not fire at all.
That’s where a spark plug gap tool comes in handy.
These inexpensive tools look like feeler gauges and are used to measure and adjust the electrode gap as needed. Most feature a variety of different thicknesses so you can find just the right setting for your engine requirements. Once you’ve found the perfect setting, simply tighten down the electrode until it’s snug against the side of the gauge – no further adjustment should be necessary after that point.
If you’re not comfortable adjusting your own plugs, most auto parts stores will do it for free or for a small fee when you purchase new plugs from them. However, even if you don’t plan on doing it yourself, having a spark plug gap tool on hand can be helpful if you ever need to make an adjustment while out on the road – many roadside assistance programs will have one available if needed (though they may charge extra for using their services).
How to Gap Platinum Spark Plugs
If your car has a platinum spark plug, you may be wondering how to gap it properly. Here are some instructions to help you get the job done:
1. First, find the correct size feeler gauge for your spark plug.
You can usually find this information in your car’s owner’s manual.
2. Insert the feeler gauge into the space between the electrode and the side of the spark plug.
3. Adjust the feeler gauge until it just fits snugly in that space.
The gap should be no more than .060 inches (or 1.5 mm).
4. Once you have the correct gap setting, remove the feeler gauge and re-insert the spark plug into the engine’s cylinder head.
How to Gap Spark Plugs
If your vehicle has a spark plug gap that is too wide, the spark will have a difficult time jumping across the gap. This can cause engine misfires and decreased performance. You may also notice that your fuel economy suffers.
To fix this problem, you will need to adjust the gap on your spark plugs. The best way to do this is with a feeler gauge. You can find these at most auto parts stores.
First, locate the correct size feeler gauge for your spark plugs. Insert the feeler gauge into the gap between the electrode and the side of the plug. If it does not fit snugly, then you will need to adjust the gap.
To make the adjustment, simply twist or bend the electrode until the proper gap is achieved. Be careful not to damage or break any of the parts in process. Once you have adjusted all of your spark plugs, re-check each one with a feeler gauge to ensure they are all properly gapped.
Don’T Gap Iridium Spark Plugs
If you’ve ever wondered whether or not to gap your iridium spark plugs, wonder no more! The answer is a resounding NO. You should never gap iridium spark plugs.
Why? Because they are designed to be self-gapping. That’s right – there is no need to adjust the gap on these plugs.
They come pre-gapped from the factory and will stay that way for the life of the plug. So save yourself some time and hassle – don’t gap iridium spark plugs!
How to Adjust Spark Plug Gap Without Tool
If your car’s spark plugs need to be adjusted, you can do it without a tool. First, find the gap between the electrodes on the spark plug. This can be done by feel or by using a ruler.
Next, use a small object, like a nail file, to slightly bend one of the electrodes so that the gap is smaller or larger. Be careful not to make too drastic of a change – only adjust the gap by a millimeter or so at most. Once you’re happy with the new gap size, re-insert the spark plug into the engine and start it up to see if it runs smoothly.
If not, adjust as needed until it does.
Credit: www.championautoparts.com
Are You Supposed to Gap Iridium Spark Plugs?
Yes, you are supposed to gap iridium spark plugs. The reason for this is because iridium is a very hard metal and the spark plugs need to be able to create a strong spark in order to ignite the air/fuel mixture in the engine. If the spark plugs are not properly gapped, it can cause engine misfires and poor performance.
What Spark Plug Gap for Iridium Plugs?
If you’re wondering what spark plug gap for iridium plugs is, the answer is .060-.070 inches. This range is slightly smaller than what’s typically used for copper and platinum plugs (.080-.090 inches), but it’s still within the acceptable range set by most automakers.
Iridium plugs are made with a very hard metal that helps them last longer than other types of spark plugs.
They also have a very small electrode tip, which means they can create a more precise spark. That’s why they’re often used in high-performance engines where every bit of power counts.
While an iridium plug will usually last longer than a copper or platinum plug, it’s important to check your owner’s manual to see what the recommended replacement interval is for your particular vehicle.
How Do You Open the Gap on a Iridium Spark Plug?
Assuming you would like tips on how to change an iridium spark plug:
Iridium spark plugs are designed to last much longer than traditional copper or platinum spark plugs. However, eventually they will need to be replaced.
Here are some tips on how to change an iridium spark plug:
1. Remove the old spark plug. This can be done with a socket wrench or a spark plug tool.
Be sure to turn the wrench counterclockwise when removing the old plug. If it is difficult to remove, you may need to use a little bit of penetrating oil first.
2. Inspect the threads in the cylinder head and clean them out if necessary before installing the new plug.
It’s important that the threads are clean so that the new plug seats properly and doesn’t get cross-threaded.
3. Screw in the new spark plug by hand until it is snug, then finish tightening it with a wrench (or your Spark Plug Tool). Again, be sure to turn clockwise this time!
You should only need about ½ – ¾ of a turn after hand-tightening in order for it to be tight enough – too much and you risk stripping the threads or breaking off the tip of the electrode inside the engine (neither of which are fun).
How Do You Close the Gap on a Ngk Iridium Spark Plug?
When it comes to spark plugs, many people believe that all you need to do is screw them in and they’ll work perfectly. However, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, you may need to close the gap on a NGK iridium spark plug in order to ensure that it works properly.
Here’s how you can do it:
First, you’ll need a feeler gauge. This will help you measure the gap between the electrode and the ground strap on the spark plug.
The ideal gap is 0.6mm-0.7mm. If it’s too small, the spark won’t be able to jump across the gap and Ignite the air/fuel mixture in your engine. Too large of a gap can also cause problems as it can allow too much voltage to pass through, which can damage your ignition system over time.
To adjust the gap, simply bend either the ground strap or electrode until you’ve achieved the desired gap measurement. Once you have everything set, re-install your spark plug and give it a try!
How to Gap Iridium Spark Plugs
Conclusion
If your car has been acting up lately, it might be time to check the spark plugs. Thankfully, gapping iridium spark plugs is a relatively easy process that can be done at home with a few tools. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
First, gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a feeler gauge and a ratchet wrench. If you don’t have a feeler gauge, you can use a regular ruler.
Next, locate the spark plugs on your car. They will usually be located near the engine. Once you’ve found them, use the ratchet wrench to loosen and remove them.
Now it’s time to gap the plugs. Using the feeler gauge or ruler, measure the gap between the electrode and ground strap on each plug. The ideal gap is usually between .028 and .060 inches.
If your plugs are gapped outside of this range, you’ll need to adjust them accordingly.
Once all of the plugs are properly gapped, reinstall them using the ratchet wrench. Start the engine and listen for any strange noises coming from the engine area.
If everything sounds normal, then you’re good to go!