Do it Yourself Car Tune Up Information

All engines have spark plugs and most have wires, they need to be changed periodically.

A tune up keeps your vehicle running great by keeping the ignition at its peak performance. As internal combustion happens, soot and tar get on the spark plugs and cause them to not be as efficient. Plug wires will slowly deteriorate from the heat of the engine and can start to short out. Another item to replace is the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Valve as it can stick due to old oil. Tuning up a newer car primarily consists of replacing these three items. The work isn't that hard; you just need to know the steps to complete the process properly.

Things You'll Need

• Ratchet
• Socket set
• Spark plug socket
• Spark plugs
• Spark plug wires
• PCV valve
• Torque wrench
• Repair manual (Chilton's of Haynes)

Instructions

1. Open the hood, and locate the spark plug wires. The wires run from the coil to the engine.

2. Remove the wires by simply pulling; pull them off one by one to keep the firing order correct. Every time you remove a wire, remove the spark plug beneath it by using the ratchet and spark plug socket to loosen it.

3. Put the new spark plug in the engine and tighten it to manufacturer specifications, listed in the repair manual, using the torque wrench. Plug the new spark plug wire onto the coil, and press it onto the new plug.

4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until all of the wires and plugs are replaced.

5. Remove the PCV valve from the valve cover gasket. The PCV valve is a small valve near the center of the valve cover gasket with a vacuum hose running from it. The valve is removed by pulling the vacuum hose from it and pulling the PCV valve from the valve cover.

6. Replace the PCV valve by pushing it into the valve cover until the rubber seal meets the valve cover and pushing the vacuum hose back onto it.

Tips & Warnings

• Always remove and replace the spark plugs and wires one at a time to keep the firing order the same.

• Use caution when pulling out the PCV valve as it can be brittle and break off.