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HOMESERVICE MANUALSCHEVROLET2006SUBURBAN K2500, 6.0 UREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 541 (ENGINE CONTROLS (INTRODUCTION) -- 5.7L)REPAIR INSTRUCTIONSSPARK PLUG INSPECTIONSPARK PLUG INSPECTION
2006 Chevrolet Suburban K2500, 6.0 U

Spark Plug Inspection

2006 Chevrolet Suburban K2500, 6.0 USECTION Spark Plug Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Chevrolet Corvette. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
    Fig 1: Cross Sectional View Of Spark Plug
    GM622530Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Inspect the terminal post (1) for damage.
    • Inspect for a bent or broken terminal post (1).
    • Test for a loose terminal post (1) by twisting and pulling the post. The terminal post (1) should NOT move.
    • Fig 2: Identifying Points For Inspecting Spark Plug For Flashover Or Carbon Tracking Soot
    GM622529Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Inspect the insulator (2) for flashover or carbon tracking, soot. This is caused by the electrical charge traveling across the insulator (2) between the terminal post (1) and ground. Inspect for the following conditions:
    • Inspect the spark plug boot for damage.
    • Inspect the spark plug recess area of the cylinder head for moisture, such as oil, coolant, or water. A spark plug boot that is saturated causes arcing to ground.
    • Fig 3: Inspecting Spark Plug Insulator For Cracks
    GM622528Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Inspect the insulator (2) for cracks. All or part of the electrical charge may arc through the crack instead of the electrodes (3, 4).
    • Fig 4: Cutaway/Discription View Of Spark Plug
    GM622527Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Inspect for evidence of improper arcing.
    • Measure the gap between the center electrode (4) and the side electrode (3) terminals. Refer to Ignition System Specifications . An excessively-wide electrode gap can prevent correct spark plug operation.
    • Inspect for the correct spark plug torque. Refer to Ignition System Specifications . Insufficient torque can prevent correct spark plug operation. An over-torqued spark plug, causes the insulator (2) to crack.
    • Inspect for signs of tracking that occurred near the insulator tip instead of the center electrode (4).
    • Inspect for a broken or worn side electrode (3).
    • Inspect for a broken, worn, or loose center electrode (4) by shaking the spark plug.
      • A rattling sound indicates internal damage.
      • A loose center electrode (4) reduces the spark intensity.
    • Inspect for bridged electrodes (3, 4). Deposits on the electrodes reduce or eliminates the gap.
    • Inspect for worn or missing platinum pads on the electrodes (3, 4), if equipped.
    • Inspect for excessive fouling.
  • Inspect the spark plug recess area of the cylinder head for debris. Dirty or damaged threads can cause the spark plug not to seat correctly during installation.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.