I'm in the process of installing NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs. I have a few questions:

Are my spark plugs pre-gapped? If they aren't, what gap measurement should I use? I've checked my manual, it says 0.4 inches, but I was wondering if it would be any different for aftermarket plugs.

There's also one plug I'm having difficulty getting to, I'm thinking about just having a shop install the last one. Will I run into any trouble with 5 new spark plugs and 1 old plug?

 

Gap should be same for OEM and equivalent aftermarket plugs. I believe that all platinum tips are pre-gapped, but check NGK website or check the plug gap to be sure.

No problem w/ 5 new and one old plug until shop can replace last plug. Maybe time to purchase some wobbly extensions and spring-supported univeral. This will usuallyallow access, unless it's necessary to get under the vehicle w/ a lift to access.

good luck

 

lol are you sure its 0.4 inches?

 

It's .044 inches or 1.1mm

 

The auto parts store always tells me they're pre-gapped and I can throw them in but when I check them with a feeler gauge they're usually at .8mm instead of 1.1mm

 

lol ya thats better

Whenever I buy plug the gap is always set.

 

Yea sorry about that, I was just trying to remember off the top of my head. It is in fact .44 inches.

I already have one of those swivel spring spark plug wrenches, and I still couldn't get to the last plug. I have a friend that owns a shop in New Jersey (where I am headed next week), and he's going to take care of the last plug for me.

 

Don't forget it's .044 inches, .44 is almost a 1/2 inch lol.

How can you not get the last one out? Is it just location or tightness of it? If you need a little extra elbow room you can tilt the hood back against the windshield with a rag underneath it, granted it's just on hinges and not struts.

 

Finch: It's a V6. The rear 3 can be a PITA.

 

I figured they would be, just saying if you need more room the hood can go farther back than it seems. I knew it would come off as an "Are you kidding me?!?" statement, lol.

The fact that they're so difficult to get out leads me to believe they were put in too tight in the first place...