On bikes and ATVs, three different spark plug thread sizes are now in use: 10 mm x 1.0, 12 mm x 1.25, and 14 mm x 1.25. The two thread reaches (lengths) now in use are 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch.
Use the correct spark plug every time. The threads of the spark plug hole may accumulate carbon deposits if the reach is too short, and the spark may not ignite the air/fuel mixture effectively. The piston may come into touch with the spark plug if the reach is too long, and carbon deposits may also accumulate on the threads of the spark plug.
In This Article...
What year did 400EX last run?
Honda has finally put an end to the prospect and hope that all of us ATV aficionados had for a newly improved and altered 2017 TRX450R as of today, March 19. They also stated in this update that a 2017 TRX400X will not be produced (previously known as TRX400EX).
This update has been long overdue and, to me, comes as no surprise. I had hoped that this wouldn’t happen, though, given I’ve owned a fair number of Honda sport models over the years. They might not be the “fastest” or have the greatest horsepower, but they are unsurpassed in terms of dependability.
Why won’t Honda produce a 2017 TRX450R and TRX400X? It’s easy. Honda is a for-profit corporation. They must make a profit, therefore they are not just there to make us stuff for enjoyment. If that particular market segment has essentially collapsed, it doesn’t make good financial sense to invest millions of dollars in R&D to create the most powerful Race / Sport ATV available with the TRX450R. The UTV, Side by Side, and SxS markets continue to gain market share at the expense of the ATV industry, and have done so for some time. The manufacturers will follow the money, and right now that money is not in the extremely niche Sport / Race Quad segment. Honda did mention in the press statement that they will review the market in the future, which might indicate a comeback if the market’s popularity changes once more, etc.
How can I tell the size of my spark plug?
The discussion above makes it evident that the ignition system is a crucial component of all internal combustion engines. Even though a normal ignition system contains a lot of components, let’s concentrate on the spark plug.
A ceramic insulator surrounds the main center electrode that makes up a spark plug. The metal shell that covers a section of this insulator has threads that enable it to be screwed into the cylinder head. The ground electrode is an additional electrode. It joins the car’s metal frame and is a component of the metal shell (which acts as the negative terminal).
The air gap—a brief space between the center electrode and the ground electrode—is present. The gas molecules in the air gap are ionized and form a charge area when we generate a potential difference between the two electrodes (by applying the high voltage from the ignition coil to the central electrode).
The air space between the electrodes is filled by this charge area. With enough electrical power, current runs through the charge region, causing the gas molecules to become extremely heated and form a plasma (that looks like an arc). The fuel-air mixture ignites as a result of the plasma’s high temperature.
The metal shell of the spark plug, which serves as both a ground terminal and structural support to withstand torque while tightening or removing the plug from the cylinder, is a significant aspect of its design.
As a result, the hex nut is also a part of the metal shell, above the threads. The spark plug can be inserted or removed using a wrench or ratchet with the appropriate socket size.
Spark Plug Size
For the length, hex size, thread diameter, and pitch of spark plugs, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) have respective standards.
The diameter of the spark plug’s threads is what we typically refer to when we say “spark plug size.” Modern motorcycles and small cars most frequently use spark plugs in the 14mm and 18mm diameters.
Additionally, some automakers employ spark plugs with a 12mm long reach and a 16mm high thread count.
What size spark plug socket do I need?
Just a few tools are required to replace the spark plugs in your car. The most crucial equipment is a spark plug socket and an extension for a socket wrench. There are two sizes available for spark plug sockets: 5/8 inches and 13/16 inches. The rubber insert included in most spark plug sockets keeps the plug firmly in place.
If it’s tough to get to your spark plugs, you could also require a universal joint. The wrench can be turned in one axis and converted into a rotation around another axis using universal joints, which are articulated joints. A universal joint might be useful if you can’t fit a wrench and extension in the area surrounding your spark plugs.
It’s crucial to avoid overtightening the spark plugs when changing them. The threads in the cylinder head or the spark plug may be harmed if it is overtightened. Make sure you don’t overtighten your plugs by using a torque wrench. The torque you apply when twisting a torque wrench is indicated via a gauge on the tool.
While the majority of contemporary spark plugs are pre-gapped from the factory, having a gapping tool on hand is a smart idea. Using a gapping tool, you can check if the gap between the ground electrode above the spark plug’s center electrode is the appropriate size. The spark on your spark plug ignites here.
A pair of boot pliers, a length of rubber tube, a clean rag, some rubbing alcohol, a tube of anti-seize, compressed air, or a wet/dry vacuum may also be useful to have on hand. Although not necessary for a straightforward spark plug replacement task, these supplies can make sure that everything goes according to plan.
Is a 400EX a quad for racing?
The 2004 Honda 400EX (also known as TRX400EX or Sportrax), which came from one of the longest-running ATV lineups in the business, was a significant turning point in the evolution of the modern sport quad. This wheeler, with its aggressive styling and speed, heralded the resurgence of the sport-ATV market and the introduction of 4-stroke quads.
A pure-sport 44, the 2004 Honda 400EX (also known as Sportrax 400EX), is to blame for the resurgence of the Sport-ATV market. The quad continues to dominate the current ATV market with to its 397-cc XR400R-inspired engine, Pro-Link rear suspension, 72 mph top speed rating, and aggressive design.
All spark plugs are 14 mm, right?
The size of the thread should be taken into account first. The majority of plugs used today have a 14mm thread; however, many older vehicles utilized 18mm and 7/8-inch threads, while some recent imported motorbikes and tiny engines have 10mm or 12mm threads.
How important is spark plug size?
A gap that is too tiny will prevent the vehicle’s fuel mixture from being ignited and affect engine performance, hence it is not better to have a smaller spark plug gap. While it may be possible to reduce a spark plug gap that is too large, doing so generally isn’t better for your car.
Can spark plugs be installed in a standard socket?
Spark plug sockets do a similar task to a regular deep socket when it comes to tightening or loosening machinery.
Spark plug sockets are attached to a turning tool using a square drive socket for them to function. They can also have a hex or bi-hex head on occasion.
To loosen the spark plugs, just insert the spark plug tip into the socket head and twist.
Whether it includes a rubber insert or is magnetic, the spark plug socket will function differently depending on the sort of socket you’re using.
Do I Need A Special Socket For Spark Plugs?
No and yes. A specific socket is frequently the best tool for the job, however a standard socket should work just as well.
Spark plug location in contemporary automobile engines is extremely intricate. Some spark plugs are positioned far inside the engine and are encircled by threads and wires.
Simple spark plug replacements can be completed with ease using a standard socket. However, to reach the spark plugs without causing any damage to the wires during replacement, you’ll need the appropriate size socket with swivel handles.
Alternatively, a universal joint socket would work. Additionally, compared to standard socket sets, a universal joint socket with a magnetic or rubber insert may accommodate a new plug better.
It is best to seek professional guidance on the tools you should use for your car if you are unsure.
How To Use A Spark Plug Socket?
Spark plug removal instructions using a normal socket or a universal joint are as follows:
- Locate your spark plugs first. Look for the plug wires that surround the ignition coil, coil pack, or distributor cap. Follow these wires to the engine block, where spark plug sets are connected to them.
- Each spark plug wire should be taken out of the plugs. To know which spark plug wire goes where, you might want to mark them.
- The next step is to place your spark plug socket on top of the plug. Make sure the size is appropriate. It should ideally fit snugly around the plug without moving.
- Next, fasten the deep socket’s back with the socket wrench (or torque wrench, if you’re using one). Between the socket and the torque wrench, an extension bar can be added.
- The spark plug must now be removed from the spark plug hole by turning the wrench while holding it in place with the extension bar.
Note: You must use the same process and apply dielectric grease to the spark boot when installing a new plug. The new plug doesn’t adhere to the boot because of the dielectric grease. The socket wrench’ torque should then be adjusted in accordance with the recommended torque specification, and you’re done!
Newer road vehicles
Most modern four-wheeled vehicles, including cars and trucks, will require a spark plug socket that is 5/8 inches in diameter. Although it won’t fit all spark plugs, this is the most popular size of spark plug socket and might thus be regarded as the industry standard. The dimension of this spark plug socket is 16mm in millimeters.
Older vehicles
The spark plug socket size you require is probably 13/16 inches if your car is older or has an older engine. Due to the continued use of many older automobiles, this spark plug socket size is the second most popular. The diameter of this spark plug socket is 20 millimeters (mm).
Small engine cars
Most tiny engine cars will need spark plug sockets that are 5/8 inches (16mm) in diameter, the same size as those used in new automobiles. Small engine BMWs are an exception to this rule; you can learn more about them later in this list. They use a different size spark plug socket than other small engine automobiles.
Motorcycles
Due to the more uniform size of motorcycle spark plugs, it is usually simpler to fix practically any motorcycle using a single size of spark plug socket. Motorcycle spark plug sockets are typically 3/4 inches in size. The diameter of this spark plug socket is 19 millimeters (mm).
Lawnmowers
Your lawnmower’s spark plug replacement will require a socket that is 3/4 inches in size. If you had a lawnmower and a motorbike, you might use one socket interchangeably because it is the same size as the one used on motorcycles. The diameter of this spark plug socket is 19 millimeters (mm).
Aviation vehicles
The same size spark plug socket is often needed to change the spark plugs in aviation vehicles like helicopters and airplanes. Similar to tractors, this socket measures 7/8 inches (22mm).