spark plug size

rd1959 · 02-24-2018, 10:16 PM

Hello all. I'm getting prepared to do my first valve check and realized I don't have a spark plug socket. What size socket will I need? Thanks.

fjmartin · 02-25-2018, 12:29 AM

Standard 5/8" spark plug socket will work. Don't need any of those super thin walled ones like some require. You'll need a short extension. Suggest compressed air to blow out any dirt and small rocks from the recesses around the spark plug before pulling it so nothing falls into the cylinder hole. Also suggest going from a series 7 plug to an 8 as it's a bit hotter but not too hot like a 9. This was a suggestion from Gerry at CSC.

Joe

rd1959 · 02-25-2018, 07:24 AM

Thanks. Going to a hotter plug sounds like a good idea. Currently, most of my riding is short 8 mile trips back and forth to work. I assume a hotter plug will stay cleaner.

Haggis · 02-26-2018, 12:45 PM

If it's an NGK plug higher numbers mean a colder running plug. For short trips or town running with the engine maybe not reaching full temperature an NGK with a lower number will run hotter.

02-24-2018, 10:16 PM	#1
rd1959 Join Date: Jul 2017 Location: Monroe,NC Posts: 131	spark plug size Hello all. I'm getting prepared to do my first valve check and realized I don't have a spark plug socket. What size socket will I need? Thanks.
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02-25-2018, 12:29 AM	#2
fjmartin Join Date: Sep 2016 Location: Redmond, WA. Posts: 534	Standard 5/8" spark plug socket will work. Don't need any of those super thin walled ones like some require. You'll need a short extension. Suggest compressed air to blow out any dirt and small rocks from the recesses around the spark plug before pulling it so nothing falls into the cylinder hole. Also suggest going from a series 7 plug to an 8 as it's a bit hotter but not too hot like a 9. This was a suggestion from Gerry at CSC. Joe __________________ 2017 BMW F800GS Adventure
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02-25-2018, 07:24 AM	#3
rd1959 Join Date: Jul 2017 Location: Monroe,NC Posts: 131	Thanks. Going to a hotter plug sounds like a good idea. Currently, most of my riding is short 8 mile trips back and forth to work. I assume a hotter plug will stay cleaner.
	0

02-26-2018, 12:45 PM	#4
Haggis Join Date: Mar 2016 Location: Scotland Posts: 21	If it's an NGK plug higher numbers mean a colder running plug. For short trips or town running with the engine maybe not reaching full temperature an NGK with a lower number will run hotter.
	2