WHAT YOU’LL NEED
Plug Wrench
This is a special wrench which fits your plugs perfectly. They usually come with a T bar for just the right grip or as a padded socket to be used with a ratchet and extension. You'll find them in the tools section.
Feeler Gauges
These are made from very thin steel and can be used to measure the gaps in your plugs and point
s. Correct gaps are vital to good tuning.
Plugs
Super Cheap Auto has a massive range of plugs and ignition parts. It's very easy to find the exact matches for your car.
Points
(IF EQUIPPED)
The points in the distributor regulate the spark at the plugs. Correct points gaps and having your points in good condition are vital to smooth running. Make sure you check or change yours when tunin
g up.
Condensor
(IF EQUIPPED)
Often overlooked, the condenser is a very important little piece of technology, fitted to your distributor. It often pays to replace the
m when tuning up. You'll find them with the plugs and other ignition parts instore.
Ignition Leads
These come singly or in sets to suit your car. Check the guide in store for an exact match. If in doubt, ask a team member and/or if you can, bring an old lead in with you.
Rags
Grab a rag bag! No matter how careful you are there will always be a little ess and it's usually on you!
WHAT YOU DO
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1. CHECK OR CHANGE THE PLUGS
Make a note of which plug lead goes to which plug and remove the leads from the plugs. Carefully unscrew each plug out of the head and examine them. A light brownish deposit is OK – this means the engine is running normally. Black or sooty plugs indicate on over-rich petrol mixture and white deposits show a mixture that is too lean. Oily deposits may indicate internal engine problems. Worn or dirty plugs should always be replaced with new ones. Check the gaps against your car's specifications and adjust them if necessary. Refit the plugs - DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN, and replace the correct leads.
A length of rubber hose pushed over the end of the spark plug will save time and prevent damaged threads when refitting.
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2. IGNITION LEADS AND POINTS
Check for cracks in the leads and make sure the caps at the plug end are tight and securely located on the spark plug tips. Check the other end at the distributor cap and make sure of a secure fit there too. To replace a lead, just pull it off the spark plug and off the distributor cap. Check first as some distributor caps have a screw cap on the leads. If you are replacing all the leads, match up the lengths BEFORE you remove anything, and mark the lead with its appropriate plug number, noting where it enters the distributor.
It is essential that the leads are positioned exactly where the old ones were. Your engine will not run unless they are. Replace only one at a time to be sure. While you're there, remove the distributor cap and check its condition inside. The contacts around the inside of the cap should not be too worn or corroded. If they are, replace the cap with a new one. If there appear to be cracks in the plastic, replace the cap. Check the contact in the centre which should be spring loaded. If it is floppy and the spring doesn't work too well, replace the cap.
Most common ignition problems stem from worn components. If in doubt, replace the lot anyway. They are not expensive and the new ones will ensure trouble free motoring.
Also ensure that your ignition system is nice and dry. A good idea is to spray the whole area with an 'anti-damp' or lubricant aerosol spray. This stops corrosion and keeps the moisture out in damp conditions.
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3. FIT A NEW CONDENSER
Locate the old condenser under the cap or to the side of the distributor body and unscrew the attachment screws. Carefully undo the contact screw and remove the condenser. Fit a new one in reverse order
Check your fanbelt regularly.
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AND THAT'S IT!
