11 replies to this topic

[jameseddolls]

Hi Guys,

 

got my 1991 rover mini city (998cc) and am changing the spark plugs on the car tomorrow or sunday and was wondering if there is any difficulty in changing them without a torque wrench. I know you should tighten them to a certain torque, but I don't have a torque wrench, so would there be any harm in using just a normal wrench?

 

thanks

[MrBounce]

I have never used a torque wrench for plugs. Just don't over-tighten them.

[nicklouse]

never used one either. they are not tightened tight either.

[jameseddolls]

never used one either. they are not tightened tight either.

 

oh right thanks for the advice, there was me panicking. Ive bought some NGK BPR6ES plugs from amazon. Do you think they will be adjusted already or do you think I should buy a feeler gauge for caution. What tool would I use to adjust the gap?

[nicklouse]

never assume that the gaps are right. in fact they are normally wrong.

 

tap it on something to close it. and a small screwdriver to lever it open.

[Icey]

It's always worth checking the gap when they are out, takes two seconds with either a feeler gauge or gap gauge (there is a specific tool). As for adjustment, whatever you can wedge in the gap, I usually just use a flat blade screwdriver.

[jameseddolls]

It's always worth checking the gap when they are out, takes two seconds with either a feeler gauge or gap gauge (there is a specific tool). As for adjustment, whatever you can wedge in the gap, I usually just use a flat blade screwdriver.

 

oh right thanks, this is the first proper job (to me its a proper job, even thought it is small) I will be doing to my mini so im quite excited. That and going to the pub 2 nights in a row haha

[sledgehammer]

when spreading the gap - make sure not to put force on the centre electrode , it can crack the insulation

 

as above there are proper adjuster tools that twist the earth electrode out , so not touching the centre electrode

 

http://www.instructa...Adjust-the-Gap/

 

if insulation is cracked , do not use the spark plug

 

I have seen pistons with a bit of insulation embedded in the side of the crown scratching the bore to death

Edited by sledgehammer, 11 March 2016 - 04:50 PM.

[Tamworthbay]

Strangely my old MGB would run ok on a wide range of spark plug gaps with the exception of the one listed in all the manuals! Bigger or smaller was fine but not within 0.1 either side of correct. Always best to find what works for,your engine and stick to it. Also worth remembering that consistency is as important as gap to a large extent.

[MRA]

Here you are the official NGK guide....

 

http://www.ngkntk.co...htening-torque/

[cal844]

I never check plug gaps, out the packet, check for damage small amount of copper grease on the threadsand fit them

[gazza82]

The only plugs that don't need to be checked are multi-electrode ones as they are preset. But all others should as they fit in a range of engines and they do differ.

I know there is a safe way to fit plugs without a torque wrench but I can't find it ... I didn't use one for years on my a-series engines but always on a modern with alloy heads. Always use a 3/8" socket set on those now too.

Was it Hand tight then nip it up with the plug socket/wrench? Even my 70s era Autobook manual says "use a torque wrench" !!

You will need on at some stage ....