Spark Plug change tips

[MrSmoofy]

Opps had another question. I've not seen anyone change the gasket on the manifold when they remove it for the plug change. This will be a plug change at 27k miles. How often/when should that gasket be changed?

 

[cncBilly]

Opps had another question. I've not seen anyone change the gasket on the manifold when they remove it for the plug change. This will be a plug change at 27k miles. How often/when should that gasket be changed?

You don’t “have to” remove the manifold. Take your time read the great posts above, it’s really not that difficult. Do it once you’ll be smiling all the way to the bank.

 

[MrSmoofy]

You don’t “have to” remove the manifold. Take your time read the great posts above, it’s really not that difficult. Do it once you’ll be smiling all the way to the bank.

Yes I saw both videos and it's the same amount of time from what I saw and easier to remove the manifold.

You didn't answer the question on how often the manifold gasket should be changed.

 

[cncBilly]

Yes I saw both videos and it's the same amount of time from what I saw and easier to remove the manifold.

You didn't answer the question on how often the manifold gasket should be changed.

On visual inspection of wear I would guess. The guys that remove the manifold for plugs don’t seem to replace it.

 

[MrSmoofy]

On visual inspection of wear I would guess. The guys that remove the manifold for plugs don’t seem to replace it.

ok thanks just wasn't sure if there was a specific interval that it should be changed.

 

[HerbieTheCar]

I think I have to change my plugs again. (no misfires yet). I didn't do it myself last time (neighbor did most of the work) and this time I want to learn how. My questions are as follows:

What size rachet and sockets do I need? I have the BMS spark plug socket so what do I need for the coil pack? How many extensions do I need for the plug and coil pack?

Also, how long has Densos lasted for you guys? Mine has about 15k miles on it. 98% of it was commuting miles. Trying to plan ahead.

Thanks.

 

[MrSmoofy]

I think I have to change my plugs again. (no misfires yet). I didn't do it myself last time (neighbor did most of the work) and this time I want to learn how. My questions are as follows:

What size rachet and sockets do I need? I have the BMS spark plug socket so what do I need for the coil pack? How many extensions do I need for the plug and coil pack?

Also, how long has Densos lasted for you guys? Mine has about 15k miles on it. 98% of it was commuting miles. Trying to plan ahead.

Thanks.

I'm about to do this as well as I had someone else do the Denso's but I want to learn myself. Denso's I was told last 10 to 15k and the HKS last up to 30 so I ordered HKS this time.

There are 2 different methods of changing the plugs some people pull the manifold which is what a friend of mine did on mine and other use swivels and small hands to get around and under to get to #3.

I've watched a video on both being done and it looked like it took the same amount of time and I didn't really see where one was easier/better than the other but I've like to hear from everyone who has changed them as I'm leaning towards pulling the manifold just o make them easier to get to even though that seems like more work.

 

[cncBilly]

I'm about to do this as well as I had someone else do the Denso's but I want to learn myself. Denso's I was told last 10 to 15k and the HKS last up to 30 so I ordered HKS this time.

There are 2 different methods of changing the plugs some people pull the manifold which is what a friend of mine did on mine and other use swivels and small hands to get around and under to get to #3.

I've watched a video on both being done and it looked like it took the same amount of time and I didn't really see where one was easier/better than the other but I've like to hear from everyone who has changed them as I'm leaning towards pulling the manifold just o make them easier to get to even though that seems like more work.

Your choice but I would and did go the swivel route.

 

[HerbieTheCar]

I'm about to do this as well as I had someone else do the Denso's but I want to learn myself. Denso's I was told last 10 to 15k and the HKS last up to 30 so I ordered HKS this time.

There are 2 different methods of changing the plugs some people pull the manifold which is what a friend of mine did on mine and other use swivels and small hands to get around and under to get to #3.

I've watched a video on both being done and it looked like it took the same amount of time and I didn't really see where one was easier/better than the other but I've like to hear from everyone who has changed them as I'm leaning towards pulling the manifold just o make them easier to get to even though that seems like more work.

So I guess it's about time to do mine. Is it bad to wait for a misfire to happen before I change it?

 

[M'Kehyah]

Sooooo I needed to replace one Denso IKH24 (broken electrode) and all the aftermarket stores (AutoZone, O'Reilly's, etc.) either did not have a sparkplug in stock, did not list a Stinger (?!) or if they did (this is important) the thread size was wrong! Too small! So bring old plug with you when you go to any of these stores to check before you buy...

 

[Herb_Remington]

Quick Question from a new guy. Just bought a used 2018 Stinger and it is nearing the 45k maintenance. I have read through the forum and have a couple questions. I am not an experienced tuner.

Are the Denso IKH24 a good replacement or should I get factory? I am running factory tune, should I re-gap any spark plug I install?

Right now it is fast enough(was driving an Passat), I just want to use good parts and make sure it runs right.

 

[General_Vodka]

Quick Question from a new guy. Just bought a used 2018 Stinger and it is nearing the 45k maintenance. I have read through the forum and have a couple questions. I am not an experienced tuner.

Are the Denso IKH24 a good replacement or should I get factory? I am running factory tune, should I re-gap any spark plug I install?

Right now it is fast enough(was driving an Passat), I just want to use good parts and make sure it runs right.

Desno is alright. I got the HKS, less issues reported with them. I do recommend lowering the gap even while stock, since you will be touching them anyway. Stock gap is wayy too high

 

[ryan1stinger]

I’ve heard folks including John from Tork Motorsports mention the torque spec to be 20-24, but Kia recommends 11-18.

http://www.kstinger.com/specifications-412.html

I would like to torque it in the middle range, however I read you can’t get a reliable reading off a torque wrench when using swivel sockets. Is this true? Someone mentioned they were able to use a torque wrench with a swivel socket. I’m concerned using a torque wrench may over tighten if it’s not getting an accurate reading.

For those folks that went hand tight on the plugs and then a 1/4 turn with a rachet did you feel the gasket squish (as you should) and have you had any issues since with your plugs? The ramifications from not tightening them enough is no bueno.

 

[General_Vodka]

I’ve heard folks including John from Tork Motorsports mention the torque spec to be 20-24, but Kia recommends 11-18.

http://www.kstinger.com/specifications-412.html

I would like to torque it in the middle range, however I read you can’t get a reliable reading off a torque wrench when using swivel sockets. Is this true? Someone mentioned they were able to use a torque wrench with a swivel socket. I’m concerned using a torque wrench may over tighten if it’s not getting an accurate reading.

For those folks that went hand tight on the plugs and then a 1/4 turn with a rachet did you feel the gasket squish (as you should) and have you had any issues since with your plugs? The ramifications from not tightening them enough is no bueno.

I just did mine till they felt right. Looking back, I probably should have used a torque wrench. Still have no issues so I guess I felt correctly

 

[ryan1stinger]

The Stinger torque specs I shared two posts ago showing 11-18 may be for conical or tapered seating where the HKS m45iL are gasket and from the HKS packaging they recommend 20-25lbs, for gasket, which is hand tight and then a 1/2 - 2/3 turn with a rachet. As for thread size it's 14mm. I didn't find this info anywhere else on the stingerforum so I thought I would share it here. I hope this helps.

 

[Aarvix]

My densos just started misfiring. I waited a bit too ling this time (17K), last time I replaced @15K (miles, not km). They're OK on map zero while I wait for new plugs to arrive, but any additional boost and she gets pissy.

I historically haven't torqued them, just go to what "feels" right (hand tight + 1/4 or thereabouts to snug the crush washer).

I probably should torque them this time, I've always worked with iron heads which are more tolerant of redneck torque-ing.
Remember, however, that the swivel joints change the geometry and will not transfer an accurate torque to the plug, so you're gonna have to YOLO that one.

 

[ryan1stinger]

Thanks to all for the great advice. I installed the plugs without having to remove the manifold. Some very small and tight areas to navigate on the passenger side. My plugs are HKS m45iL that have the gasket seat which is crushed when installing. For one of the plugs on the driver side I ended up reinstalling which means the 2nd time I went to install it, the gasket was already crushed, therefore I was able to hand tighten it further however I couldn't tighten it much more with the wrench, maybe a 1/8 turn. It was a straight shot so I was able to use a torque wrench without the swivel to confirm the torque was at least 24. Could I run into a seal issue with installing a crushed gasket on my plug even though I confirmed it is torqued to the correct specs? I've read some info on the internet stating you should replace a gasket seat when reinstalling the plug. The last thing I want to do is have an issue with the plug, however I don't see an option to get a replacement gasket seat for these plugs.

 

[Danny5]

I am kinda curious here, but how do you know a plug is misfiring? Do you get a code?

 

[ryan1stinger]

I am kinda curious here, but how do you know a plug is misfiring? Do you get a code?

CEL, engine vibrating, car not accelerating and OBD2 dongle reports cylinders that are misfiring

 

[dtrail7a]

Did you guys use an impact at all or just a ratchet for the coil bolts? I've read everything in here and I'm ready to get the job done now that my brake issue is FINALLY resolved. Plugs, Jb4, and pedal controller all showing up to my hotel in Texas on Wednesday. Can't wait! Tried the Wolfgang paint sealant yesterday. It turned out great! Thanks for everyone's input and all the info shared on the forum. Brings great peice of mind.