Wednesday, February 8, 2012

How to Change Spark Plugs



First thing you need to do if you plan on changing the spark plugs in your small block Chevy is to open the hood of the vehicle.  Most vehicles have a hood release inside the vehicle, under the dash board, on the drivers side.  Then open the hood and get a 3/8 drive, 5/8 inch size socket, a 3/8 inch ratchet and an assortment of extensions.  For example 1 inch, 3 inch, and 6 inch extension would be a good choice for the job. (you can always put the 3 and 6 inch together if you need a 9 inch) Next you will have to pull the wire off the spark plug, start by twisting the boot of the wire to break free any corrosion, apply steady pressure and pull the boot off of the plug.  Then take your 5/8 inch socket and put it on the spark plug, it should fit snug around the hex of the plug, then put the ratchet on the socket (use extensions if necessary).  Twist counter clock wise to loosen the spark plug, and unthread spark plug all the way out of the head.  Once the old spark plug is completely out, get a new spark plug, check the new spark plugs gap to make sure it is correct.  This specification may be found underneath the hood, for a small block Chevy it is usually about .044 inch.  Thread in the new spark plug clockwise until the spark plug is tight.  It is the same procedure for all 8 plugs.

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