OEM 2002 Buick Regal Spark Plug

2002 Buick Regal Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to inspect the terminal post, insulator, spark plug boot, and spark plug recess area for damage and proper function on 2002 Buick Regal?

  A: Examine the terminal post for indication of damage while checking its stability by twisting and pulling since it must stay fixed. The insulator must be inspected for three abnormal conditions including flashover and carbon tracking and soot which appears when electrical charge conducts between the terminal post and ground. The park plug boot needs inspection for damage while the Cylinder Head Spark Plug recess should be checked for any water or oil or coolant presence since these fluids can create ground arcing through the boot. The inspection should determine if any cracks exist in the insulator because they could enable electrical charging to arc beyond the electrodes (3, 4). A proper check of arcing conditions alongside a measurement of the center electrode to side electrode gap is needed to maintain Spark Plug performance because wide gaps lead to operational problems. Comparing the correct Spark Plug torque is vital because low torque may result in operational problems yet high torque can break the insulator. During inspection check for tracking damage in the area near the insulator instead of the center electrode and shake the Spark Plug to detect broken or worn components especially in side electrode and center electrode. Whenever a rattling noise occurs it reveals internal damage whereas a loose center electrode weakens the spark. An inspection must be conducted to check if Spark Plug electrodes (3, 4) display bridged deposits that could affect the spark gap either partially or completely. Inspect all evidence of platinum pads on electrodes (3, 4) to verify their existence. The inspection of debris in the Cylinder Head Spark Plug recess area is necessary to ensure that damaged or dirty threads do not hinder Spark Plug installation.