How to Clean a Spark Plug With an Air Compressor

Normally, spark plugs don't need to be cleaned. However, if you've been storing new or slightly used spark plugs in an area that has collected a lot of dust, then cleaning them is a must. Cleaning a spark plug with compressed air will remove some of the contaminates that may be on the end of the plug's electrodes. Spark plugs need to be relatively clean to function properly, and one of the best ways to do this is with compressed air.

Things You'll Need

• Air compressor w/ air nozzle attachment

Instructions

1. Turn the air compressor on to the highest setting and wait for the compressor's engine to shut off. When this happens, the compressor will be fully charged.

2. Attach the compressor air nozzle to the end of the compressor's hose. This is usually a quick connect attachment. It will require that you pull back on the quick connect valve lock on the compressor hose and insert the valve on the nozzle into the end of the hose. Then, let go of the valve lock. The nozzle will not be locked to the hose.

3. Hold the spark plug you want to clean in one hand so that the electrode is facing up.

4. Aim the nozzle at the electrode portion of the spark plug and pull the handle on the nozzle to release the compressed air. Blow off all of the contaminates that are on the spark plug electrodes.

References

• "Automotive Tools Manual: Guide to Buying and Using Automotive Tools"; Haynes; 1999