How to Clean Lawn Mower Spark Plugs

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

Rate: (4 Ratings)

Part of a lawn mower's general maintenance is cleaning its spark plugs. Many times, cleaning the spark plugs fixes a mower that is having trouble firing, and it is also an easy way to keep your mower in good condition.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Toothbrush
  • Fine-grit sandpaper
  • Ratchet or socket set

Step1
Disconnect the spark plug wire from the end of the spark plug.
Step2
Remove the spark plug with a socket wrench or ratchet. The socket or ratchet needs to fit the spark plug perfectly. Unscrew the plug and remove it.
Step3
Clean the spark plug with an old toothbrush or with fine-grit sandpaper. Remove any dirt, debris or dust from the metal around the top of the spark plug.
Step4
Find the small piece of metal above the electrode at the top of the spark plug. There should be a small gap between the metal and the electrode. Check your lawn mower's manual for the exact distance needed in that gap. If you do not have the manual, the gap is usually 1/4- to 1/2-inch wide.
Step5
Remove any leftover debris.
Step6
Replace the spark plug and tighten it into place.
Step7
Reconnect the spark plug wire.
Step8
Prime the engine and start the mower.

Comments

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on 3/20/2008 The gap on the spark plug is very important to the workings of the engine. Check the manual and use a gap spacing tool for best performance.

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eHow Article:  How to Clean Lawn Mower Spark Plugs

eHow Home & Garden Editor

eHow Home & Garden Editor

Category: Home & Garden

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