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Spark Plug Inspection

  1. Remove the ignition coils and the spark plugs (see IGNITION COIL AND SPARK PLUG REMOVAL/INSTALLATION  ).
  2. Inspect the electrodes and the ceramic insulator.
    • Burned or worn electrodes may be caused by:
      • Advanced ignition timing
      • Loose spark plug
      • Plug heat range too hot
      • Insufficient cooling
    • Fouled plugs may be caused by:
      • Retarded ignition timing
      • Oil in combustion chamber
      • Incorrect spark plug gap
      • Plug heat range too cold
      • Excessive idling/low speed running
      • Clogged air cleaner element
      • Deteriorated ignition coils
        Fig 1: Identifying Spark Plug Gap, Damaged Electrodes, Gasket And Insulator
        G08072602Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  3. Replace the plug at the specified interval, or if the center electrode is rounded (A), or if the spark plug gap (B) is out of specification, or the spark plug electrode is dirty or contaminated. Use only the spark plug listed.
    NOTE:
    • Do not adjust the gap of iridium tip plugs.
    • Do not use a plug cleaner.

    Spark Plugs 

    NGK: SILKR8A-S 

    Electrode Gap 

    Standard (New): 0.7-0.8 mm (0.028-0.031 in) 

    Fig 2: Identifying Spark Plug Gap
    G08072603Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  4. Install the spark plugs and the ignition coils (see IGNITION COIL AND SPARK PLUG REMOVAL/INSTALLATION  ).