How To Gap Spark Plugs

Many drivers know that when you purchase a new spark plug, you need to take the time to inspect the spark plug gap. Even the slightest variance of a few thousandths of an inch in this minuscule gap can lead to an engine misfire. Although most DIY car care enthusiasts know the significance of the spark plug gap, it’s important to grasp its direct impact on the ignition system’s efforts to start the engine. With Drive Burtness, learn how to gap spark plugs to ensure optimal engine performance around Whitewater. Learn more about spark plug change frequency, and don’t hesitate to reach out to our service center if you have any questions.

What is a Spark Plug Gap, and Why Is It Important?

One thing everyone should know is that the spark plug gap is the most critical component of this engine part. Even a few thousandths of an inch in this tiny gap could cause your engine to misfire. The spark plug gap refers to the space on the plug’s tip between the center electrode and the ground electrode (the curved ground strap at the end of the plug). The gap allows the electrical “spark” to occur at the right voltage to ignite the air-fuel mixture in an engine’s internal combustion chamber.

When you don’t have the proper spark plug gap, that can lead to premature wear, ignition system stress, and even cylinder misfires. The space between electrodes must be wide enough to create a sufficiently energized spark. If the gap is too small, there may not be enough room for the air-fuel mixture to ignite, causing a failure to ignite. On the other hand, if the spark plug gap is too wide, it can lead to a weak spark that fails to properly ignite the cylinder, leading to a cylinder misfire. If you’re not sure about the specifications for your vehicle, the vehicle manufacturer includes how your spark plug should be gapped in the vehicle’s owner’s manual.

Should You Check Pre-Gapped Spark Plugs?

Even if you purchase a pre-gapped spark plug, it’s best that you verify that it’s gapped correctly for your vehicle before heading out on Orfordville streets. When spark plugs are pre-gapped, that means that they are pre-measured to work with most engines. To ensure your spark plugs efficiency and effectiveness, you should still check pre-gapped spark plugs with the appropriate measuring tool.

How to Properly Gap Spark Plugs

Commonly, newer spark plugs designed with precious metals like iridium, platinum, or ruthenium should be gapped with a feeler or wire-type gap gauge. However, a coin-style gap tool can be used if your vehicle uses copper/nickel spark plugs. Always check your owner’s manual for spark plug types and recommendations. When gapping your spark plugs at your Janesville-area home, take your time to do it correctly to prevent damage to the plug. Here’s how to gap spark plugs:

1. Locate the gap gauge or feeler gauge.
2. Clean the spark plug if you’re checking the measurements on the spark plugs in use. You shouldn’t need to clean the plugs.
3. Measure the gap size by running the gauge tool through the electrodes. If the gap or feeler gauge doesn’t fit at the selected gap size, the gap needs to be widened. If the gauge passes through the electrodes without touching them, the gap needs to be narrowed. Be careful when bending the electrodes, and make incremental changes to ensure you’re not damaging the bottom of the electrode or hitting the center coil.
4. Check the gap again and repeat the adjustments until you have the correct size gap.

Schedule Spark Plug Service with Drive Burtness

If you’d rather leave the crucial spark plug adjustments to the professionals, easily schedule service with the professionals at Drive Burtness. Whether you’re prepared to change your spark plugs yourself, or you’re trusting our team in our Orfordville service center, we only use and sell genuine OEM parts for high-quality and lasting repairs.