removing and replacing spark plugs?

I went to Ace Hardware to get a spark plug removing socket for my 86 vf500f, and was baffled when they asked me "what size spark plug is it?" I went to their spark plug section to see if I could 'recognize' which kind I have, and that didn't do anything but confuse me more... I told them I'd go home and check, then come back. I didn't know there'd be more than one kind of spark plug, but then again, everything here's a blank canvas for me. :tongue:

So: I went home and checked my service manual, it says 12mm. Is this all I need to know when I go back? Also, If I'm going to look to replace the spark plugs, is there anything I should make sure I get / don't get? Thanks again...

 

One item you will not need is a 12mm sparkplug installation socket.

 

I have NO idea how someone can change those plug s with a regular socket.

I used the Spark Plug socket from my bikes tool kit which allows an open ended wrench to fit on the end to turn it.


Worked well.

 

Question re: spark plug wrench size

I hope this will begin to answer your question: If it is an NGK DPR9EA-9, or most other OEM spec plugs, it is likely going to need and 18mm socket. You also need to check the depth of the plug to ensure the length of the socket you purchase is sufficient. At some tool stores a "kit" of spark plug sockets is available and some come with a top which will accept a box end or open end wrench as well as a "socket". They may be available as singles too. May be the way to go. Check how much clearence you have to operate around and above the plug. A torque wrench is a must to ensure proper torque to promote heat dissapation. Before you remove a plug ensure that any and all debris is removed from the area. Compressed air works well. These are just a few tips I feel are important. Go to a spark plug manufacturers website to obtain tips and information about changing plugs. Also the Honda repair manual. The horses mouth is always a good place to start.
I see that Billy didn't seem to enjoy his hike.

 

Certain folks who shall remain nameless should take lessons on how to answer a question from a new person.......this is a correct response....
especially if the person does not understand that you are trying to be funny, not just an ass......

 

The two standard plug socket sizes are 5/8" & 13/16". The smaller one (5/8) is the one you need. Just make sure it has the rubber insert that grips the plug, so you don't have to fish the plug out.

:crazy:

 

Not always.
A 5/8" is nearly the same to 16mm (15.875mm).
While the Champion spark plug for our bikes IS a 16mm, the NGK plug is NOT. As said above, the NGK plugs are 18mm. A less common but still existent size.

When I got my '86 VF500F, someone replaced the front and rear cylinders with different plugs. The rear 2 were 16mm/5/8", and the front two were 18mm.


So tamworth, you might end up needing both 16mm (aka 5/8"), AND an 18mm.
Idealy you could return the one you don't need, but YMMV.

 

As I do not have a clue what the VF500 plugs look like, I will not comment on what it is you need for a socket.

I do have a tip, if the plug is recessed deep into the head, ala 6g, I recommend that you put the socket on the extension, then put a couple wraps of electrical tape to hold the two together. A brand new spark plug socket fits very tight and when you install your new plugs and attempt to remove the socket and extension, they will separate, leaving the socket in the recess. You will not be able to get the socket out and you will have to remove the plug again. This will compromise the sealing washer on the plug.

I decided to just make a dedicated plug tool, by tack welding a 6" long, 3/8" extension to the correct plug socket.

If the plugs are not recessed into the head...please ignore this :biggrin:

 

I have heard stories of having two different brands from the factory, but not different sizes. Considering the wrench that comes with the bike is only one size. Your PO was just asking for trouble. Hopefully yours was a 1 in a million.

Oh, Norcal made a good point about the new sockets as well.:smile:
:crazy:

 

I glossed over that information because I'm not totally familiar with the diminutive VF...I did think that was kind of odd, but didn't want to say anything when I really didn't know. I didn't want to start another flame war over something as simple as spark plugs. Thanks for discussing that, it will certainly help to clear up any confusion for the OP. :smile:

 

Plug size

As the flames rise...
You have probably discovered by now.......there are only a couple of sizes of plug wrenches that exist..... for some.......some folks that use only the adjustable metric wrench for any size.....and some folks who are passionate about their correct opinions. My resaon for the suggesting to check with the horses mouth.
Here is a link to a socket may do the job if in fact you have oem plugs in there...... Amazon.com: Motion Pro 18mm Spark Plug Socket Wrench - --/--: Automotive Many others exist if you shop for real tools. Possibly too pricey....but it exists......
If the plugs are Champions just buy a 5/8".....sorry if I didn't cover all the basis and get everthing right. If the POs were VFR "purists" they are not likley Champs......but hey....shit happens.......
I had forgotten why I often fail to comment!

 

Take your quarrels and personal hate to PM, you are fucking up somebody elses thread again and it's unnecessary. The guy asked a legitimate question, so if you can't stay on topic, start your own thread. No this isn't my site, but it isn't yours either, don't ruin it for everybody else.

 

Had the same issue on my 750, ended up needing an 18mm THIN WALL SOCKET. A regular socket will probally not fit into the hole. Goodluck:thumbsup:

 

Good grief, what did I start?!! LOL Thanks everyone, I appreciate the links and advice!

 

That'll learn ya.:biggrin: click pic

 

IT'S very important to lubricate plug threads with grease or motor oil every time they're installed.

You should also make sure the gap is properly set to about .032"

NEW PLUGS are properly torqued when you stop turning about 1/2 -3/4 turn after you first feel the resistance of the washer compressing.

USED plugs are properly torqued by turning just 1/8-1/4 turn after first resistance, not more.

The nominal size of the plug is not always the socket size due to ambiguity in nomenclature, and most older Honda applications use a 16mm socket.

 

I agree with the oil on the threads bit....however, if you are using modern iridium plugs, they are NOT to be gapped. The electrode is too tiny and you will ruin the plug. This is guidance from both NGK and Denso. Non iridium?, gap away.

 

If you can't tack weld the sockets like NCB suggests for the deep wells.they sell them already done up on a T- handle these work great IMO...the only thing is you have to torque them to specs with a standard torque wrench......

Good Luck

Crusty

 

I somewhat disagree, Crusty, that torque wrench is necessary every time.....except maybe for a newbe who hasn't developed "the touch" through long experience.

 

You "started" nothing. Lots of little pissing contests on any bike fora that are ongoing no matter what the specific subject coupled with the usual cast of characters found on the most specific or general of participatory websites is what got started (again).

At the risk of upsetting the beings who have short fuses, a need to preach the gospel according to St. Judas The Denouncer and the need to be in charge, let me suggest with all seriousness and good intent that what you need most IMO to get that bike up and running is a service manual and a trip to your local library for a looksee at one of many available books on basic mechanics and even more specifically, how a motorcycle works.

If possible even though this is not the greatest time of the year in the US to do, try to hook up with some other enthusiasts at what are generally called "bike nights". Again, if possible, try to find a local bike shop or dealership that has a good reputation for fair dealing. Businesses of that nature and ethical standards are more than valuable to folks new to the whole scene.

I do hope the wisecrack about the plug socket didn't offend you. I am nearly postitive it didn't. As to the rest that were offended, they can fuck off.