how do i check for a spark?

[blueclio2222]

Hi,

Just wondering how do i check i get a spark from each lead? do i just pull off the leads and see if the car faulters?

 

[tom_dot_COM]

unplug 1 of the leads, remove the plug from the engine and pop it into the lead. Then just point the plug at something metal and use your eyes.

Edit: about 5mm away the spark should jump accross

 

[blueclio2222]

what so take out the spark plug........ then re-attach the lead.....then start the car with only 3 spark plugs in?

 

[TheEvilGiraffe]

Is the car mis-firing ?

 

[blueclio2222]

i think so....its poping at the exhaust. plus the engine is rocking.....im trying to eliminate things before i take it to the garage.

 

[j.a.racing]

what so take out the spark plug........ then re-attach the lead.....then start the car with only 3 spark plugs in?

yes but hold the tip of the 4th plug close to something metal like the linlet manifold whilst someone else cranks the car you should see a blue spark

id use some plasitc pliers or simular to avoid getting a shock if i were you

 

[blueclio2222]

what do i need the plastic pliers for???

 

[rory182]

what do i need the plastic pliers for???

insulation! rubber gripped or wear a glove

 

[j.a.racing]

just use something non conductive to syop u getting the spark, coz if your holding it whilsrt cranking you will get a shock

 

[DrR]

To stop yourself getting a shock.

 

[blueclio2222]

can i just lay the plug down on the engine whilst i check for the spark?

 

[j.a.racing]

yea it is normally just easier if you hold it and look closley rather than leaning round the bonnet trying to do both

 

[mark123]

Seeing as it's running, you don't need to remove the plugs. You can just pull off the leads one at a time putting each one back before you try the next. If there is a spark problem on one cylinder removing that lead won't make any difference, the others will make the misfire worse.

Still use pliers ;-)