User: How do I change the spark plugs on my 1987 gt with a 3sfe
Assistant: **Summary**: Changing the spark plugs in your 1987 Toyota Celica GT (3S-FE engine) involves a few key steps that can be performed with basic tools.
**Likely Causes / Decision Path**:
1. Old or worn spark plugs can lead to poor engine performance.
2. Regular maintenance suggests changing spark plugs every 30,000 miles or as required.
**Quick Checks (5–10 min)**:
1. **Visual Inspection**: Check current spark plugs for wear or corrosion.
2. **Access**: Ensure you have space around the engine to work comfortably.
**Detailed Procedure**:
1. **Gather Tools**:
– 16mm spark plug socket or wrench
– Torque wrench
– Gap gauge
– Anti-seize compound (optional)
– Ratchet and extension (for better access)
2. **Disable the Ignition**:
– Disconnect the negative battery cable to avoid any electrical issues.
3. **Remove Spark Plug Wires**:
– Carefully pull off the spark plug wires from the spark plugs. Do NOT pull on the wires themselves; grip the boot.
4. **Remove the Old Spark Plugs**:
– Using a 16mm plug wrench, remove the spark plugs by turning counterclockwise.
5. **Inspect the Old Spark Plugs**:
– Look for signs of wear, damage, or fouling. This can indicate engine issues.
6. **Prepare New Spark Plugs**:
– Use NGK BCPR5EY11 or ND Q16R-U11 as recommended spark plugs.
– Set the electrode gap to 1.1 mm (0.043 in). Adjust gently by bending the ground electrode if needed, making sure to NOT touch the center electrode.
7. **Install New Spark Plugs**:
– Using your hand, thread the new spark plugs into the holes to avoid cross-threading.
– Tighten them with the torque wrench to 180 kg-cm (13 ft-lb or 18 N·m).
8. **Reattach Spark Plug Wires**:
– Ensure the wires are correctly placed back onto each spark plug.
9. **Reconnect the Battery**:
– Reattach the negative battery cable.
10. **Start the Engine**:
– Allow it to run for a few moments to check for smooth operation.
**Specifications**:
– Spark Plug Torque: 180 kg-cm (13 ft-lb, 18 N·m)
– Spark Plug Gap: 1.1 mm (0.043 in)
– Recommended Spark Plugs: NGK BCPR5EY11, ND Q16R-U11
**Notes & Safety**:
– If you experience difficulty removing a plugged spark or if it spins freely, take care as threads may strip.
– Make sure the engine is cool before starting this procedure to prevent burns or injury.
– Maintain a clean working area to avoid contamination of the spark plug holes.
**Next Steps**:
– If the vehicle exhibits performance issues after the spark plug change, further diagnostics on fuel injectors or ignition components may be warranted.