How to Clean Spark Plugs?
4 Answers
Spark plug cleaning methods: 1. Use carburetor cleaner: Soak the spark plug in it for half an hour, then use a soft brush to clean the head of the spark plug. This will remove the carbon deposits on the spark plug; 2. Use white vinegar for cleaning: Soak for half an hour and then brush. White vinegar can help remove carbon deposits to some extent, but it is not recommended because the acidity of the vinegar can corrode the spark plug, significantly reducing its lifespan. The spark plug, commonly known as the sparking plug, functions by discharging the high-voltage pulse electricity sent from the high-voltage wire (spark plug wire), breaking down the air between the two electrodes of the spark plug to generate an electric spark, thereby igniting the air-fuel mixture in the cylinder.
I'm quite skilled at spark plug cleaning – it's a DIY job that saves money and hassle. First, let the engine cool completely; never work on hot components to avoid burns. Then gently remove the plugs using a spark plug socket wrench, being careful not to damage the wire connectors. The cleaning tools are simple: use a soft-bristle brush or old toothbrush dipped in gasoline or specialized spark plug cleaner to gradually remove carbon deposits and oil stains. Avoid excessive force that could damage the center and side electrodes – they're delicate. After cleaning, air-dry the plugs in a ventilated area; never towel-dry as fibers may get lodged. Finally, use a gap gauge to check electrode spacing (typically 0.7-1.0mm is ideal), adjust if needed, then reinstall. Regular cleaning improves ignition strength, makes acceleration smoother, and slightly improves fuel economy. However, inspect plugs every 20,000km – replace if severely corroded. Remember to wear gloves throughout to avoid skin contact with cleaners.
Spark plugs may seem like small components, but cleaning them requires caution. Once I took a lazy shortcut and didn't clean them properly, which resulted in electrode wear, unstable ignition, severe engine vibration, and nearly caused bigger issues. Always use non-metallic tools for cleaning—a toothbrush works well, as hard brushes can scratch the electrode surface. The key is to prevent dirt from clogging the gaps and affecting the spark. Personally, I recommend replacing old spark plugs with visible erosion marks rather than cleaning them—modern iridium or platinum spark plugs have long design lifespans, and cleaning them may increase risks. It's better to spend a few bucks on new ones for a permanent solution. After cleaning, ensure the threads are clean during installation, and avoid over-tightening to prevent cracking. Regular maintenance checks on spark plug conditions and proactive replacement are safer practices.
Cleaning spark plugs is actually easy, just follow these quick steps. Soak them in some gasoline or cleaner for a few minutes, then gently brush with a soft brush, focusing on removing carbon deposits. After drying, just reinstall them. However, a reminder: if they're heavily soiled, don't bother cleaning—replacing them is better. After cleaning, check if the electrodes are intact.
