How to Replace a Motorcycle Spark Plug

If you want to maximize the performance of your bike, you should replace your old spark plug. A new one will not only increase fuel efficiency, but it will also keep your engine running smoothly. In addition, a healthy spark plug burns off contaminants from fuel additives, resulting in cleaner fuel emissions.

If you notice that your motorcycle's spark plug has a white or yellowish appearance, you should change it immediately. This is because it can be an indication of an overheated engine. There are several possible causes, including an improperly set ignition timing, an oil leak, or a worn ignition point. Overheating can cause serious damage to your bike, so it's important to check your spark plug regularly. Fortunately, replacements are inexpensive and easy to perform.

First, remove the gas tank from your bike to access the spark plug. Once you have accessed the spark plug, use a socket to unscrew it from the cylinder head. Then, use a deep socket to remove it. Be sure to thread the plug back in properly to avoid cross threading. Once you have removed it, you can then replace it with a new one.

To get the right spark plug for your bike, you should first know the manufacturer's recommended gap. There are a lot of different types of motorcycle spark plugs, so it's important to choose the right one for your bike. You can use the Part Finder to choose the right one. You should also check the size of the gap between the new plug and the old one.

Inspecting your motorcycle spark plugs regularly will help to keep your bike running smoothly. Look for unusual wear or fracturing on the ceramic insulation. Similarly, excessive corrosion on the ground electrode can signal that it's time for a new one. If you see these signs, then you need to change your motorcycle's spark plugs.

Bad motorcycle spark plugs can cause harsh idling, sputtering, and loss of power. Some common symptoms of a bad spark plug include inadequate acceleration, lower gas mileage, and misfiring. Misfiring occurs when the spark plug does not ignite at the right time. It disrupts the rhythm of your engine and results in a shortened engine life.

A bad spark plug can also cause a flooded engine. When you crank your motorcycle but it doesn't start, you can usually smell gas. The fuel is soaking up the gas in the combustion chamber, which means that it is not combusting properly. Even though the carburetor and gas injector are offering the proper gas and air ratio, the spark plug is not creating the arc required to move pistons.