As a car owner, there’s nothing more satisfying than maintaining your vehicle by yourself. It saves you money, and it gives you a sense of pride knowing that you can take care of your ride on your own. One of the most important things you need to do when it comes to car maintenance is changing the spark plugs. And when you’re changing them, you need to make sure that the gap between the electrodes is set correctly. That’s where an iridium spark plug gap tool comes in handy.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about iridium spark plug gap tools – what they are, why they’re important, how to use them, and much more. So, put on your mechanic gloves and let’s get started!
What Are Iridium Spark Plug Gap Tools?
Before we dive into the details, let’s first understand what iridium spark plug gap tools are. In simple terms, they are specialized tools used to adjust the gap between the center electrode and ground electrode of an iridium spark plug.
For those who don’t know, an iridium spark plug is a type of spark plug that has a small center electrode made of iridium, which is one of the hardest materials known to man. This makes them last longer than traditional copper or platinum spark plugs. However, because iridium is so hard, adjusting the gap between the electrodes can be tricky without the right tool.
Why Are Iridium Spark Plug Gap Tools Important?
Now that we know what these tools are let’s talk about why they’re important. As mentioned earlier, setting the correct gap between the electrodes is crucial for optimal engine performance. If the gap is too wide or too narrow, it can cause misfires, reduced power output, and even damage to the engine.
Using an iridium spark plug gap tool ensures that the gap between the electrodes is set correctly, which results in better fuel efficiency, smoother engine operation, and a longer lifespan for your spark plugs.
How to Use an Iridium Spark Plug Gap Tool?
Using an iridium spark plug gap tool is pretty straightforward. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Remove the old spark plug from your engine.
Step 2: Clean the threads of the new spark plug and apply a small amount of anti-seize lubricant on them.
Step 3: Insert the new spark plug into the cylinder head and tighten it by hand.
Step 4: Use the iridium spark plug gap tool to adjust the gap between the center electrode and ground electrode according to your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. You can find this information in your car’s manual or online.
Step 5: Once you’ve adjusted the gap, double-check it with a feeler gauge to make sure it’s correct.
Step 6: Tighten the spark plug using a torque wrench to ensure it’s at the right level of tightness.
Repeat these steps for each spark plug you need to replace.
What Are Some Benefits of Using an Iridium Spark Plug Gap Tool?
Now that we know how to use an iridium spark plug gap tool, let’s discuss some benefits of using one:
1. Better Engine Performance – As mentioned earlier, setting the correct gap between electrodes results in better fuel efficiency, smoother engine operation, and increased power output. This means your car will run better and perform at its best.
2. Longer Lifespan for Your Spark Plugs – By using an iridium spark plug gap tool, you’re ensuring that your spark plugs last as long as possible. This saves you money in the long run because you won’t have to replace them as often.
3. Saves Time and Money – By doing the job yourself instead of taking your car to a mechanic, you’re saving time and money. You don’t have to pay for labor costs, and you can do it whenever it’s convenient for you.
4. Easy to Use – An iridium spark plug gap tool is easy to use, even for beginners. As long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions, you’ll be able to adjust the gap between the electrodes without any problems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using an iridium spark plug gap tool is essential for maintaining your vehicle’s engine performance and longevity. It ensures that the gap between the electrodes is set correctly, resulting in better fuel efficiency, smoother engine operation, and increased power output. Additionally, using one saves you time and money by allowing you to do the job yourself instead of taking your car to a mechanic.
If you’re a DIY mechanic or enthusiast who wants to maintain their vehicle on their own, investing in an iridium spark plug gap tool is a must. With this tool in hand, you’ll be able to change your spark plugs with confidence and ensure that your car runs at its best.
References:
1. “Spark Plug Gap: How Important Is It?” Car Bibles. Accessed August 13, 2021.
https://www.carbibles.com/spark-plug-gap-how-important-is-it/
2. “How to Change Spark Plugs.” Popular Mechanics. Accessed August 13, 2021.
https://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/how-to/a3087/how-to-change-spark-plugs/
3. “Iridium Spark Plugs vs Platinum: What’s the Difference?” AutoZone. Accessed August 13, 2021.
https://www.autozone.com/diy/spark-plugs/iridium-spark-plugs-vs-platinum-whats-the-difference
4. “How to Use a Spark Plug Gap Tool.” wikiHow. Accessed August 13, 2021.
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Spark-Plug-Gap-Tool
