


#BAD SPARK PLUG SYMPTOMS HOW TO#
The old spark plug may tell you why it has fouled how to read different types of spark plug fouling Without a strong and consistent spark, the plug can no longer ignite the fuel/air mixture properly, which causes misfiring and further fouling. This causes the current to leach from the tip, past the insulator, and into the metal shell, where it will ground out without creating a spark.

The coating on a fouled plug prevents the insulator tip of the plug from doing its job.Įlectric current will always choose the path of least resistance, and the deposits covering the ceramic insulator have less resistance than the insulator itself. The ceramic insulator prevents the current from going straight to ground. On a clean and undamaged spark plug, electricity is sent from the coil through the plug’s center electrode, creating a spark when it bridges the gap over to the ground electrode. Which substance is causing the fouling will usually determine the appearance of the plug. Several substances can foul a spark plug, but the most common are: Use a spark plug with an iridium or platinum ground electrodeĪ spark plug is considered fouled when the ceramic insulator, center electrode, and a ground electrode at the firing tip becomes coated with a foreign substance such as fuel, oil, carbon, or coolant.Make sure you don’t leave the choke on too long.
#BAD SPARK PLUG SYMPTOMS INSTALL#
Can you install a plug with a higher heat rating to prevent fouling?.How to prevent your ATV spark plugs from fouling.The head gasket or intake manifold is leaking.Common causes of coolant fouling spark plugs.Common causes of spark plug oil fouling.Oil fouling: A blotchy and inconsistent black or shiny black finish.Fuel injector related issues that cause wet fouling Carburetor related issues that cause wet fouling The engine is flooded from multiple failed starting attempts Common causes of spark plug fuel fouling / wet fouling.Fuel fouling / wet fouling: Wet and dark/black appearance.Cold weather riding on fuel-injected ATVs The electrical system is weak or defective, causing a weak spark Continuous low-speed driving, driving short distances, or prolonged idling Common causes of spark plug carbon fouling or dry fouling.Carbon fouling or dry fouling: Grey to matte black appearance.Normal condition: Brown or light grey appearance.The old spark plug may tell you why it has fouled how to read different types of spark plug fouling.
