Can Spark Plugs Still Be Used After Cleaning?
2 Answers
Spark plugs can still be used after cleaning. The cleaning methods are as follows: 1. Place the spark plug in a glass container, pour white vinegar until it covers the spark plug, soak for 2 to 3 hours, then scrub clean with a hard toothbrush and let it air dry naturally; 2. Place the spark plug head-down in a glass bottle, spray carburetor cleaner into the bottle until it covers the spark plug, cover the bottle, wait for about half an hour, then take it out, scrub clean with a toothbrush, and let it dry or use a hair dryer to dry it; 3. Soak the spark plug's ignition electrode directly in pure toilet cleaner, place it in a ventilated environment for 10 minutes, wait until the bubbles gradually decrease, then take it out, rinse it clean with white vinegar, and let it air dry.
It depends on the specific condition of the spark plugs. Last time I cleaned the spark plugs on my old car, I found that if the electrode wear wasn't severe, they could indeed be reused after cleaning. The key is to carefully check the electrode gap—use a bank card to measure it, with around 0.8mm being ideal. After soaking them in carburetor cleaner and brushing off the carbon deposits, you need to inspect whether the ceramic body has cracks and if the electrode tip is still intact. If you notice small pits or blackening on the skirt, it indicates serious gas leakage, and cleaning won't help in such cases. For older cars, you can give it a try, but for turbocharged cars, it's better not to bother—just replace them outright for reliability. Remember to set the torque wrench to 25 N·m when reinstalling them; overtightening can cause cracks.
