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cleaning spark plugs

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Old Oct 27, 2004 | 01:14 PM
  #1  
el conquistador's Avatar
el conquistador
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cleaning spark plugs

what are some good, safe methods for cleaning spark plugs?
i ran some seafoam through the intake via a vac line and the plugs seem like they are fouled and need cleaning (i was expecting that). the idle sucks but the truck runs fine at higher speeds. sometimes when i start it up, the engine wants to die. BTW, i recently changed the IAC and TPS (non adjustable on 91 2.3L). i was just hoping i could wait til this weekend but it wont happen. I will also pull codes and check the vacuum for safe measure. any other suggestions while i am doing this?

thanks in advance,
E.C.
 
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Old Oct 27, 2004 | 01:51 PM
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Dan Robertson's Avatar
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For what spark plugs cost, I wouldnt bother to clean them. Replace them and save yourself some time and aggravation.
Dan
 
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Old Oct 27, 2004 | 04:20 PM
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i would rather clean them since they are not that old and they are double plats so any other suggestions?
 
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Old Oct 27, 2004 | 04:33 PM
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Sandblast and clean well.
 
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Old Oct 27, 2004 | 04:45 PM
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Get one of these:

Spark Plug Cleaner

I have one, but haven't used it in a while. I used it on all my boat and jet ski plugs. Boats are not as bad, but any 2-stroke engine is known for coating plugs...


 
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Old Oct 27, 2004 | 08:17 PM
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Brass brush should do it.
 
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Old Oct 27, 2004 | 11:07 PM
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Have you checked the EGR?
 
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Old Oct 28, 2004 | 01:40 PM
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Thanks ken, i had a brush in mind and i have never had to clean plugs so i didnt want to damage them

Originally Posted by 99xlt4.04x4
Have you checked the EGR?
replaced that recently, too.
 
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Old Oct 28, 2004 | 02:36 PM
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On cleaning spark plug insulators, I use baking soda & a orange stick.

The combination won't put marks on the ceramic like some metal bristle brushes will & the orange stick won't chip or scratch the ceramic. It'll also easily trim, so the tip will get into those hard to reach places & it's hard enough to last. The baking soda rinses off easily too.

Will also make those 2 cycle surface gap plug insulator's look like new too.

OH btw, for those of you that don't know what an "orange stick" is, just ask your sweety, bet she has a supply of the small 1/4 inch diameter ones in her fingernail beauty kit.
 
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