Spark plug re-gap?
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Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 76
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From: Phoenix AZ
Spark plug re-gap?
Have an 02 with 13k miles on it. With the low milage, the original plugs are certainly not worn out, however they have been in the engine for 7years. I was going to pull them, change the wires, use some anti-seize on the plugs and dieletirc on the new wire boots. Then re-install the original plugs and new wires. My question is, I have read a lot about how off the gap was on original plugs that came out of these cars. If they are off when I pull them can I safely re-gap them or do I need to buy new plugs. Thanks.
Pro
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 653
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If they're Iridium or Platinum plugs, don't try to alter the gap. Just measure all 8, if you find significant variation go ahead and replace the set otherwise reinstall as you described w/ anti-seize and dielectric grease.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 2,332
Likes: 31
From: Silver Spring MD
Platinum at .060 Iridium at .040
I replaced my platinium plugs at about 60K with Iridium plugs. They say DON'T re gap them but mine weren't all at .040. They are worrying about scraping off the Iridium COATING on the electrodes. I REGAPPED THEM to .040 and have had no trouble since. The platnium plugs HAD some large pads on them AT ONE TIME. Most of mine were long gone and are now floating around in the atmosphere as platinium DUST. Only plug that drives you NUTS is the #7 on drivers side near the power brake booster. For this one got a $4.95 swivel spark plug socket at AutoZone and used it to LOOSEN the plug. I loosened all others with standard spark plug socket and various length extensions. Had to tie back hoses and tubing and remove some from the brake booster. Got NICE red plug wires froom Gene for a little over $50 even though my black ones were fine. Have fun and enjoy the new pep you seem to get from new plugs.
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