- The first thing you could do is run a compression test. You will need a compression tester (figure A). Remove the spark plugs from your engine and screw the end where the spark plug was located. If you have fuel injection, you need to disable the fuel pump so that the fuel won't wash down the cylinder wall causing an improper compression check. Once you have the compression tester attached to the first cylinder you start with, crank the motor. Write down the number that is on the gauge and then check it against your service manual.
- If one cylinder has low compression, it could be a problem with a cylinder, sticking value, or a lot of other internal components that could lead to a larger issue.
- Take a look at your spark plugs. If you have any that are black or oily (figure B), it could mean that your car is running rich. If that is the case, you need to check the gap on your plugs -- there is a gap gauge (figure C) for doing that. There are different numbers for the gap and you will find that in your service manual.
- You also need to check your spark plugs for cracked insulators (figure D). If your insulator is cracked, it could mean you used a wrong tool to install the spark plug. There is a spark plug socket that is designed for installing spark plugs and it has an insulator inside (figure E) that helps prevent cracking the insulators.
- If you have aluminum heads on your spark plugs, you need to use Anti-Seize (figure F). This will stop electrolytic corrosion, which is two types of metal that are next to each other and they can cause corrosion.
- There are different tools available that helps you install the spark plugs (figure G) straight so that you don't cross thread them. They are great for plugs that you can't reach.
- Investigate your spark plug wires. If you have a split in your wires, you won't notice it and it will cause arcing and sparking. Open the hood at night and see if you have any sparks.
RESOURCES :
Dye Ink, Alcohol Ink
Ranger Industries, Inc.
Website: www.rangerink.com
Bend-Pak, Inc.
Website: www.bendpak.com
Tires
BFS Retail and Commercial Operations
Bloomingdale, IL 93060
Phone: 630-259-9000
Website: www.mastercareusa.com
Mechanix Wear
24950 Anza Dr.
Valcenia, CA 91355
Customer service phone: 800-222-4296
Website: www.mechanix.com
Remote Starter and Compression Tester
Equus Products, Inc.
Innova Electronics
Fountain Valley, CA 97208
Phone: 714-241-6800
Website: www.iequus.com
The Most Complete Auto Troubleshooting Guide: Cars and Light Trucks
1585001937
Dewey Huckaba
(December 1993)
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