How to Determine the Condition of a Motorcycle Spark Plug?
1 Answers
When assessing the condition of a motorcycle spark plug in use, the first step is to perform a spark test. A normal spark plug should produce a strong blue spark that accurately jumps from the center electrode to the negative electrode at the top of the spark plug. If the spark does not jump accurately to the top electrode but instead jumps to other parts of the spark plug, it indicates a short circuit between the two electrodes. Below is additional information on the spark test for spark plugs: 1. Inaccurate spark jumping: This is caused by carbon deposits and can be repaired by burning off the deposits. Alternatively, it may be due to poor quality of the spark plug itself. Upon close inspection, you may notice that the center electrode is skewed to one side. In such cases, the spark plug must be replaced to resolve the issue. 2. Black or white discoloration of the spark plug: (1) The optimal operating temperature for a spark plug is generally between 400-800 degrees Celsius. If the spark plug appears black, it indicates that the operating temperature is too low, which is caused by an overly rich air-fuel mixture (or prolonged idling). (2) If the spark plug appears white, it indicates that the operating temperature is too high, which is caused by an overly lean air-fuel mixture. The normal operating condition should be a light tan color.
