Spark plug gapping is not an easy job to do if the right tool is not there with you. Yes, the gap spark plug tools that are available might feel too extra to buy separately.
However, there are some tools that are really great at handling delicate material. The great part is these do not cost you a fortune.
So, using a more precise way how to gap spark plugs without a tool costs a lot. Let’s have a conversation about that today!
Gap Spark Plugs: What You Need to Know!
There are devices such as wire looking gap gauge or feeler category tools for spark plug gapping. Some even prefer using coin style tools to handle adjustments. However, considering the design of modern spark plugs, these might leave abrasive and inaccurate damages.
I’ll go over the need for proper gapping following some cool tricks to achieve great results. Some myths will also get banned from your mind hopefully in later sections and much more interesting information is coming your way, I promise. So, let’s jump into the content right now.
Dear Beginner, First Understand Gapping
As a starter, you may know by now that the gap between two electrodes is awfully crucial. This is considered as the most important element of plug itself. Why So? Well because this gap is the one who decides the amount of work needed for proper ignition result.
To be simpler in words, this gap has a direct connection to how effortlessly the ignition would start in a system.
With bigger gap, the system has to work more for a successful ignition. Also, no matter what the original gap size is, with passing time it is supposed to get bigger. This is basically due to everyday use.
So, the initial idea you need to have is that with larger gap your ignition system will require more time to start engine. This also brings more wear and tear risk into the counter for electrodes.
Coming back to the most important evergreen question, why does the right gap matter? Because that decides your ignitions systems wellbeing and effortless engine’s starting.
Checking Manual
Start with knowing the exact gap required for your vehicle. There should be instructions in the manual regarding this. Or maybe you can simply have a look at emissions sticker. This is usually located somewhere in the swingarm. You may find it in the frame or below seat as well.
Once you know the right amount, get a coin style gap tool. Avoid using such tools on any platinum and iridium focused devices.
Finding the Right Measurement
There should be a measurement ramp on the outer edge of coin style tool. Simply put the device between electrodes. Start rotating it and on one point you’ll feel resistance.
Check what measurement the gauge stopped at. It needs to be not too wider than your vehicle’s recommended gap. You can reduce or adjust accordingly.
Gap Adjustment
Simply tap plug against surface and make the gap come to your required measurement. You need to be gradual and careful while doing so. There are aluminum insulator or porcelain that should not get damaged.
Never try using the ramp for making any kind of gap at all. This is a common mistake that people do unknowingly. A ramp is only meant for measurements purpose. It should not be used instead of a gapper. This is will surely damage the spark plug in a serious way.
Hole-Gapper Trick
Some gap tool comes with a nice hole. You may believe it is meant to hold the tool with their keychain but that hole can serve other purposes as well.
You can simply insert the ground electrode inside this hole when the gap is too narrow. Next use the internal ridge to adjust gap and make it come at desired width. Never apply too much pressure while doing so.
A Myth to Ignore
There’s a popular myth of pre-gapped spark plug that you need to know about. There are lots of spark plug that come with a claim of pre-gapped honor. However, this is something you should not pay much attention to.
There are so many types of engines for automotive that it is funny to imagine all of them will come with a similar spark plug gapping. Of course, there should be at least a slight amount of difference between these various types of motors.
So, to ensure your engine is doing fine on starting ignition, you need to think about checking the gap and adjusting it if required. There’s no harm to be on the safe side anyways.
Verdict
There’s a lot of folks who requires for a method on gapping spark plugs without any tool. Please don’t belong to that group, it’s really sensitive and unsafe. You should always try using a safe and dedicated tool to perform such precise nature of adjustments.
It’s absolutely not fine to go for methods that can cause damage to the overall system. So, avoid such baseless temptation. Find proper gauges and adjustment tools for your spark plug. Good Luck!
