How to Test a Spark plug without testing equipment. (Lawn mower Spark plugs)
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- čas přidán 18. 07. 2023
- A healthy and effective ignition system in an internal combustion engine requires regular spark plug testing. The spark that ignites the air-fuel combination in the engine's cylinders and causes combustion and power production is produced by the spark created by the spark plug. Spark plug testing and inspection on a regular basis can assist spot any problems and guarantee optimum engine performance. Here's a guide on properly testing spark plugs:
Safety first: Make sure the car is parked on a level surface, the engine is off, and the key is out of the ignition before working on any component of the engine. Wear the proper protective gear, such as gloves and safety goggles, to avoid burns and let the engine cool down.
Find the spark plugs on your engine, then remove them. Whether an engine is flat, V-shaped, or inline affects the number and placement of spark plugs. Use a spark plug socket and ratchet to gently remove each spark plug one at a time after disconnecting the ignition coils or spark plug wires.
Before testing, visually examine each spark plug for indications of wear, damage, or fouling. Check for oil fouling, excessive carbon deposits, and worn out electrodes. Spark plugs should be replaced if they look to be worn out or broken.
Measure the distance between the centre and side electrodes of the spark plug to determine the electrode gap. To make sure the gap is appropriate for your engine, check the specs for your car. If required, alter the distance using a gap tool.
Spark plug Compression Test: A compression test can assist in locating probable cylinder problems in an engine. After inserting a compression gauge into the spark plug hole, start the engine repeatedly without using the ignition. Note each cylinder's compression readings. A broken spark plug or other engine issues may be the cause of low compression in one or more cylinders.
Spark Plug Resistance Test: A digital multimeter is required to measure the spark plug's resistance. Set the resistance or "ohms" setting on the multimeter. Connect the leads of the multimeter to the spark plug's metal body (ground) and the terminal. Typically, the resistance value should fall within the range that the manufacturer has stated. It can be a sign that there is a spark plug issue if the resistance is very high or low.
Test for a Strong Spark from a Spark Plug: This test aids in determining whether the spark plug is producing a strong spark. Reconnect the ignition coil or spark plug wire to the plug, and ground the plug to the engine block. Turn the engine on and watch the spark at the electrodes of the spark plug. The spark must be constant and powerful. A defective spark plug may be the cause of weak or irregular sparks.
Check for excessive carbon deposits, oil, or other impurities on the electrode if you think your spark plug is fouled. Spark plugs that are fouled need to be cleaned or replaced.
Replace or clean any broken or worn spark plugs in accordance with the findings of your inspection and testing. You can try cleaning the spark plugs with a wire brush and solvent if they are clean but fouled but otherwise in good shape.
Reinstall Spark Plugs: Carefully reinstall the spark plugs into the engine and tighten them to the manufacturer's suggested torque specs after you've tested, cleaned, or replaced the spark plugs as necessary.
Spark plugs can assist ensure smooth engine operation, higher fuel efficiency, and enhanced performance by being regularly tested and maintained. It is important to seek advice from a skilled mechanic or automotive expert if you are unsure about checking spark plugs on your own.
Thank you
Craig Kirkman (Owner and creator of The Repair Specialist Channel)
#SparkPlugTesting
#EngineIgnition
#EnginePerformance
#SparkPlugInspection
#SafetyFirst
#CompressionTest
#ResistanceTest
#StrongSpark
#SparkPlugMaintenance
#FuelEfficiency
#AutoMaintenance
#CarCare
#DIYMechanic
#AutomotiveTips
#EngineTroubleshooting - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Hi guys I just wanted to Introduce to you my other Channel "Kirkman's Academy" - which i'm just getting started. It's a go-to channel for simple explanations for hard to grasp subjects such as physics, maths and chemistry etc. Here is the link: www.youtube.com/@kirkmansacademy/videos . Thank you so much for looking, and if these topics interest you then I hope to see you the there. Many thanks indeed. Craig 😊👍
Why didn't I make this video ?LOL Nice demo as usual. I have to add this, many years back I could not get my 16 HP Kohler to start. It had a good spark (so I thought) an old timer LOL asked me what I had done so far & then told me to change the plug. I said it has a good spark. He said change it. Well me being a typical young ...... worked on it for another couple of hours, nothing. I had to go out & before I went home I bought a new plug. Installed the new plug & it started right up. This old timer keeps this in mind when I try to help a stubborn youngin.
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Stay well, Joe Z
This is a great test. I have been doing this since I was 15 years old. I just turned 69. I repair small engine equipment now in my retirement. I used this exact same test yesterday on a mower. Not only is this a good test for a spark plug, it also tests the spark coil and the high tension lead.
I made a spark plug tester from a small hose clamp and a pre-wired black battery terminal clip with about 6 inches of the original wire. It's from a Battery Maintenance Charger that died. I soldered the wire to the hose clamp on the tightening/loosening screw cover. The hose clamp is tightened around the spark plug threads and the battery terminal clip is clipped onto ground. This way, my hands are free to turn a starter key on a tractor mower (with the clutch/stop pedal bungee-corded down and the seat switch is permanently locked closed), pull the starter rope on a push mower, etc. I always have a cable tie wrapped and locked loosely enough to pull up and over to hold a push mower's throttle handle pulled so the engine doesn't die when I have to move away from it, but easy enough to move back down and out of the way when I'm finished and want the engine to turn off, so that would free another hand when testing a push mower spark plug. Then I bought a Tool Aid brand "In-Line Spark Checker Kit for Recessed Plugs" which has a light to watch to more easily know if the spark plug sparks and the kit has other nice accessories. Cat. No. 23970.
Nice one, Mr.s Craig.
If a spark plug has developed a crack internally or is long term fuel soaked from a faulty carburetor, having spark is no guarentee that plug will work even if it does spark. Honda mowers are prone for bad plugs over time. I use a spark plug tester in line with the coil. A mirror comes in handy if you cannot see the tester over the bulk of the engine. "When in doubt, throw it out" is a rule for old food and works with any small engine as well reguarding the spark plug.
Craig everyone of your videos is packed with useful information. Truly enjoy the no fluff approach in your videos. 👍
Thank you brother!
Thank you to 👍👍
That's what I always do to see if it's firing even car's.
Great advice.... Ta mate
I usually have someone hold the plug and then I pull the pull cord. I instantly know by the screaming if the plug is good or not
😂
What can I do if I need to replace the spark plug and the one I need can’t be found on the market at all. It’s a K7TY according to manual
There are several things you can attempt if the K7TY spark plug model that your handbook recommends is not available:
Cross-Reference: Spark plug manufacturers occasionally provide cross-reference charts to assist you in locating a substitute plug for the one that is listed in your handbook. To find suitable substitutes, look for cross-reference charts online or get in touch with spark plug makers directly.
Consult Auto Parts Stores: Go to your neighbourhood auto parts store or give them a call to find out if they know of any spark plugs that work with the engine model you have. They might have access to information sources or databases that can be used to find appropriate substitutes.
Join online forums and communities pertaining to vehicle maintenance or the particular engine model you own. In these sites, fellow enthusiasts or professionals might offer suggestions for compatible replacements or expertise with other spark plugs.
Speak with the Manufacturer: Get in contact with the company that made your engine or the apparatus that holds it. They might be able to help locate difficult-to-find parts or offer advice on suitable spark plug substitutes.
Expert Mechanic: See a professional mechanic or technician that specialises in your engine type if you're still having trouble finding an appropriate replacement spark plug. They could be able to find a suitable replacement because they have access to more resources or information.
To guarantee optimum engine performance and lifetime, always follow manufacturer recommendations for maintenance and part replacements and keep compatibility and performance as your top priorities when choosing a replacement spark plug.
I hope this helps a little
Craig
Nice 👍
Thank you! Cheers!
Thank you for sharing great videos👍👍👍👍
In many cases, spark plugs can last for several years. I normally clean, gap and reinstall spark plugs in my customer's equipment.
Hello sir how are you good evening
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