How to care for spark plugs

The ignition system is one of the most important engine systems because of the so-called petrol spark ignition. It consists of two circuits: low and high voltage.

The first is created, including the battery, and the second includes components such as the ignition coil, high-voltage cables and spark plugs. Spark plugs work in such a way that a spark jumps on their electrodes, which initiates the ignition of a compressed mixture inside the combustion chamber, so spark plugs largely determine the ease of starting, smooth operation of the engine and fuel consumption in the car.

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Take care of the candles

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The spark plug operates at high voltage, so it must maintain high insulating properties, as well as be resistant to pressure fluctuations in the combustion chamber and many other factors such as chemical processes or sudden temperature changes.

In addition, candles must also remove excess heat to the outside so that their temperature during operation does not lead to ignition. Types of automotive spark plugs vary in size, body shape, threads, standard of manufacture, calorific value, and type of electrodes.

Depending on the make, model, and age of the vehicle, spark plugs should be changed every 30000–45000 kilometers. It is very difficult to find the right spark plugs on our own, and it is best if we rely on the help of a mechanic or a competent dealer in this matter. Prices for candles start from a dozen or so PLN and average

can withstand 30 miles. km.

However, more durable models are available on the market, such as those made with IRT alloy, which will be fully functional for up to 60-40 hours. km. In addition, we have a selection of more expensive (prices from about PLN XNUMX) but more durable candles with platinum electrodes. The wear of spark plugs is accelerated first of all with high mileage, i.e. engine wear. In older vehicles, spark plugs quickly form deposits, making it particularly difficult for a spark to pass.

The condition of the candles is easiest to check using special tables that can be found in automotive stores. We will learn how to determine the condition of the engine by the color and type of carbon deposits on the spark plugs. It used to be popular to clean dirty and oily spark plugs with wire brushes because new ones weren't available "right away" as they are today. However, despite frequent use, this is by no means a good method of caring for candles.

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By scrubbing the candles, we can even damage their electrodes, and instead of cleaning them, we will have to buy a new one. Scratching the spark plug electrodes with anything can damage the porcelain insulators and be counterproductive. If we do not have experience with a car, we should not take on the replacement of spark plugs ourselves, but entrust this task to a mechanic. It is also worth taking care of the performance of high-voltage cables, because without them, not a single candle will function properly. Rubbing them with denatured alcohol used to be a popular method for cleaning pipes, today you can buy preparations specifically designed for this purpose.

The consultation was conducted by Sergiusz Garecki, an auto mechanic from Wroclaw.

Source: Wroclaw Newspaper.