Pontiac tempest 1968 Service Manual page 371

6E-22 1968 P O N T I A C SERVICE MANUAL
3„ Using a 13/16" spark plug socket, remove the
spark plugs.
INSPECT
Spark plug life is governed to a large extent by
operating conditions and plug life varies accordingly.
To Insure peak performance, spark plugs should be
checked, cleaned and regapped every 12 months or
12,000 miles.
Worn or dirty plugs may give satisfactory oper­
ation at idling speed, but under operating conditions
they frequently fail. Faulty plugs are evident i n a
number of ways such as wasting gas, power loss,
loss of speed, hard starting and general poor engine
performance.
Spark plug failure, i n addition to normal wear may
be due to dirty or leaded plugs, excessive gap or
broken insulator.
C H A N AND REGAP
Clean spark plugs thoroughly using an abrasive-
type cleaner. A l l spark plugs must be of the same
make and number or heat range. Use a round feeler
gauge to adjust the spark plug gaps to .035" (Fig.
6E-35). Test spark plugs following instructions fur­
nished with Spark Plug Cleaner and Indicator (Fig.
6E-36).
F i g . 6 E - 3 6 Spark Plug Cleaner and Indicator
center electrode which extends through porcelain
center. Always make adjustments by bending
ground (side) electrode.
INSTALL
1. Inspect spark plug hole threads and clean before
installing plugs. Corrosion deposits can be removed
with a 14 m m , x 1.25 SAE spark plug tap (available
through local jobbers) or by using a small, soft wire
brush i n an electric d r i l l . If a tap Is used, coat It
with plenty of grease to catch any chips.
CAUTION: Use extreme care when using tap to
prevent cross threading. Also, crank engine sev­
eral times to blow out any material dislodged
during cleaning operation.
CAUTION: Before adjusting gap, file center elec­
trode flat. In*adjusting spark plug gap, never bend
2. Install spark plugs i n engine, using new gaskets,
and tighten to 23 lb. ft. torque.