Toyota RAV4 > Tune-up and routine maintenance > Spark plug check and replacement

Spark plug check and replacement

1. Spark plug replacement requires a spark plug socket which fits onto a ratchet wrench. This socket is lined with a rubber grommet to protect the porcelain insulator of the spark plug and to hold the plug while you remove it from the spark plug hole. You will also need a wire-type feeler gauge to check and adjust the spark plug gap and a torque wrench to tighten the new plugs to the specified torque (see illustration).

2. If you are replacing the plugs, purchase the new plugs, adjust them to the proper gap and replace each plug one at a time.

i. 1 Tools required for changing spark plugs

1 Spark plug socket — This will have special padding inside to protect the spark plug’s porcelain insulator

2 Torque wrench — Although not mandatory, using this tool is the best way to ensure the plugs are tightened properly

3 Ratchet — Standard hand tool to fit the spark plug socket

4 Extension — Depending on model and accessories, you may need special extensions and universal joints to reach one or more of the plugs

5 Spark plug gap gauge — This gauge for checking the gap comes in a variety of styles. Make sure the gap for your engine is included

Toyota RAV4 Tune-up and routine maintenance | Spark plug check and replacement

Note: When buying new spark plugs, it’s essential that you obtain the correct plugs for your specific vehicle. This information can be found in this Chapter’s Specifications.

Check

3. Inspect each of the new plugs for defects. If there are any signs of cracks in the porcelain insulator of a plug, don’t use it.

4. The gap between the electrodes should be identical to that listed in this Chapter’s Specifications or in your owner’s manual. If the gap is incorrect, the spark plug must be replaced.

Caution: These spark plugs have iridium-coated electrodes. Don’t attempt to adjust the gap on a used iridium-coated plug.

Removal

5. Remove the ignition coils (see Engine electrical systems).

6. If compressed air is available, blow any dirt or foreign material away from the spark plug area before proceeding.

7. Remove the spark plugs (see illustration).

i.7 Use a spark plug socket with a long extension to unscrew the spark plugs

Toyota RAV4 Tune-up and routine maintenance Use a spark plug socket with a long extension to unscrew the spark plugs

8. Whether you are replacing the plugs at this time or intend to reuse the old plugs, compare each old spark plug with the chart on the inside back cover of this manual to determine the overall running condition of the engine.

Installation

9. Prior to installation, it’s a good idea to coat the spark plug threads with anti-seize compound (see illustration). Also, it’s often difficult to insert spark plugs into their holes without cross-threading them. To avoid this possibility, fit a length of snug-fitting rubber hose over the end of the spark plug (see illustration). The flexible hose acts as a universal joint to help align the plug with the plug hole. Should the plug begin to cross-thread, the hose will slip on the spark plug, preventing thread damage. Tighten the plug to the torque listed in this Chapter’s Specifications.

i. 9a Apply a thin coat of anti-seize compound to the spark plug threads, but not in the area near the electrodes

Toyota RAV4 Tune-up and routine maintenance | Spark plug Apply a thin coat of anti-seize compound to the spark plug threads, but not in the area near the electrodes

i. 9b A length of snug-fitting rubber hose will save time and prevent damaged threads when installing the spark plugs

Toyota RAV4 Tune-up and routine maintenance A length of snug-fitting rubber hose will save time and prevent damaged threads when installing the spark plugs

10. Install the ignition coil (see Engine electrical systems), if necessary.

11. Follow the above procedure for the remaining spark plugs, replacing them one at a time to prevent mixing up the ignition coils.

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