GM 5614046 Spark Plug

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The correct heat range for a spark plug depends on driving habits. Long-distance, high-speed driving favors colder plugs, while stop-and-go driving favors hotter ones.

The gap should match the Specifications or Tune-up decal values, with the wire gently touching both electrodes. Use the notched adjuster on the feeler gauge to correct any gap discrepancies.

Properly functioning spark plugs are essential for the engine to perform optimally. It is recommended to replace the spark plugs with new ones at the specified intervals mentioned in Routine Maintenance or the owner's manual. When replacing the spark plugs, it is important to use new ones of the same heat range and type, which can be identified by the series of numbers and letters stamped on them. The spark plug gap plays a crucial role in the efficiency of the spark, so it should be set correctly using a feeler gauge. The condition and appearance of the spark plugs provide valuable information about the engine's tune and condition. A clean and white insulator nose indicates a weak mixture or a hot plug, while hard, black-looking deposits suggest a rich mixture. A black and oily plug may indicate engine wear and a rich mixture. Light tan to greyish brown deposits on the insulator nose indicate a correct mixture and a well-maintained engine. If there are long, brown, tapering stains on the outside of the white portion of the plug, it indicates a faulty joint and requires replacement. Always tighten the spark plug to the specified torque, avoiding excessive tightening.

When replacing spark plugs in an L4 or V6 engine, it's essential to assess the underhood configuration, especially if the car has air conditioning or power steering, as some plugs may be challenging to access, potentially requiring specialized extension or swivel tools. Typically, the necessary tools for this task include a plug wrench or spark plug socket designed to fit a ratchet wrench (with insulation to protect the porcelain insulator) and a feeler gauge for verifying and adjusting the spark plug gap. Additionally, a special spark plug wire removal tool can assist in separating the wire boot from the spark plug. To facilitate a smooth replacement process, it's advisable to acquire the new spark plugs in advance, pre-adjust them to the correct gap, and then replace each plug individually. Allow the engine to cool before removing the old spark plugs, taking this time to inspect them for defects and check the gap. The gap should match the Specifications or Tune-up decal values, with the wire gently touching both electrodes. Correct any gap discrepancies using the notched adjuster on the feeler gauge. Check for any spark plug body cracks and replace if necessary. Cover the car's fenders to protect the paint. With the engine cool, carefully remove one spark plug wire from a spark plug, using a twisting motion if necessary and a removal tool if available. If possible, use compressed air or a bicycle pump to blow away debris from the spark plug area to prevent foreign material from entering the cylinder during plug replacement. Place the spark plug wrench or socket onto the plug and remove it in a counterclockwise motion. Compare the removed spark plug with reference images to assess the engine's running condition. Insert a new plug into the engine, hand-tightening it; if resistance is encountered, adjust the plug's angle to avoid cross-threading. Firmly tighten the plug with a torque wrench for proper seating. Before reconnecting the spark plug wire, ensure it is correctly routed away from the hot exhaust manifold. Follow these steps for the remaining spark plugs, replacing them one at a time to prevent any mix-up of the spark plug wires.

Spark plug replacement requires a spark plug socket lined with a rubber grommet to protect the porcelain insulator and hold the plug while directing it to the spark plug hole. A wire-type feeler gauge is needed to check and adjust the spark plug gap. Inspect the new plugs for defects and check the electrode gaps using a wire-type gauge. Adjust the gap if necessary by bending the side electrode. Align the electrodes if needed. Work on one spark plug at a time to avoid mixing up the wires. Use compressed air or a bicycle pump to clean the area around the spark plug. Remove the old spark plug and compare it to assess the engine's condition. To prevent cross-threading, use a short piece of rubber tubing to align the plug with the hole. Attach the plug wire using a twisting motion. Repeat the process for the remaining spark plugs.

Cover the model's fenders to protect the paint.

Install a new plug by hand, ensuring it threads easily. Then, firmly tighten it with a torque wrench.

A black and oily plug may indicate engine wear and a rich mixture.

Light tan to greyish brown deposits on the insulator nose indicate a correct mixture and a well-maintained engine.

Allow the engine to cool and cover the car's fenders to protect the paint. Carefully remove one spark plug wire using a twisting motion and blow away debris from the spark plug area to prevent foreign material from entering the cylinder.