Spark Plug Replacement
Thread Starter
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 76
Spark Plug Replacement
Hi,
Im confused on which spark plugs to use. I have a 99 e320 automatic. Which plugs should i use? I know nothing about spacing them out so i am hoping that there are plugs out there that are pre gapped. What else do i need to do?
Please guide me in the steps. Help and Thanks.
Is it like replacing plugs on a honda?
Im confused on which spark plugs to use. I have a 99 e320 automatic. Which plugs should i use? I know nothing about spacing them out so i am hoping that there are plugs out there that are pre gapped. What else do i need to do?
Please guide me in the steps. Help and Thanks.
Is it like replacing plugs on a honda?
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 3,766
From: Georgia, USA
RE: Spark Plug Replacement
Spark plugs usually come gapped at a certain setting, but you need to check them and re-gap as necessary.
Get a gapping tool at a discount auto store like AutoZone. Ask someone there to show you how to use it. It takes about 20 seconds to learn how to use one. NO BIG DEAL. Also ask them for the proper gap setting. They can look it up. It should also be in your owner's manual or maintenance manual. Take your time gapping them and don't jostle the plugs around after you have them set.
Get some anti-seize compound while you're there at the store. They may sell a "tune-up kit" that includes anti-seize compound and dielectric grease. Use the anti-seize sparingly on the plug threads and the dielectric grease on the inside of the wire boots.
Don't over tighten the plugs. Turn them just snug after finger tightening--about 1/16th to 1/8th turn.
Is it like changing plugs on a Honda? Essentially, yes, after you locate the plugs. Most first-timers on M-B have trouble finding them depending on model. You have to remove a cover or two, or other parts like intake ducts or other hoses.
Get a gapping tool at a discount auto store like AutoZone. Ask someone there to show you how to use it. It takes about 20 seconds to learn how to use one. NO BIG DEAL. Also ask them for the proper gap setting. They can look it up. It should also be in your owner's manual or maintenance manual. Take your time gapping them and don't jostle the plugs around after you have them set.
Get some anti-seize compound while you're there at the store. They may sell a "tune-up kit" that includes anti-seize compound and dielectric grease. Use the anti-seize sparingly on the plug threads and the dielectric grease on the inside of the wire boots.
Don't over tighten the plugs. Turn them just snug after finger tightening--about 1/16th to 1/8th turn.
Is it like changing plugs on a Honda? Essentially, yes, after you locate the plugs. Most first-timers on M-B have trouble finding them depending on model. You have to remove a cover or two, or other parts like intake ducts or other hoses.
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 76
From: Houston, Texas
RE: Spark Plug Replacement
I just used Bosch platinum 2 when I changed my plugs. Whatever you do, use Bosch.
A word or two on multi-pronged plugs:
In a VW forum I used to belong to, someone made a very interesting point about this. When the plug discharges, the current will automatically arc to the closest contact. Therefore, whichever contact is actually the closest will ALWAYS be the one the current arcs to. So, it would seem that any other contacts would be "extra" and not really doing anything.
Just my two cents.
Also, Bosch pre-gaps their plugs.
A word or two on multi-pronged plugs:
In a VW forum I used to belong to, someone made a very interesting point about this. When the plug discharges, the current will automatically arc to the closest contact. Therefore, whichever contact is actually the closest will ALWAYS be the one the current arcs to. So, it would seem that any other contacts would be "extra" and not really doing anything.
Just my two cents.
Also, Bosch pre-gaps their plugs.
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