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new spark plugs 2001 focus


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Guest
Anonymous Poster
paige_is_the_junk@yahoo.com

Nov 25, 2006, 5:57 PM

Post #1 of 3 (1688 views)
new spark plugs 2001 focus Sign In

2001 ford focus z-tech dohc 4cyl. 99000 miles. Was running fine,gas mileage fell off a little. installed new autolite plat. plugs and the car idles rough now. The plugs gap at .050 and were checked prior to installation,and it is impossible to mix up plug wires. HELP!


Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Tom Greenleaf profile image

Nov 25, 2006, 10:50 PM

Post #2 of 3 (1682 views)
Re: new spark plugs 2001 focus Sign In

Spark plugs are like eggs. The slightest even unseen crack in the ceramic of them can cause problems. For that matter even removing plug wires can cause problems so if the problem started right away. If so you have a bad plug or wire right now, T



steve01832
Veteran
steve01832 profile image

Nov 26, 2006, 2:28 AM

Post #3 of 3 (1677 views)
Re: new spark plugs 2001 focus Sign In

First off, you are not supposed to gap platinum plugs because the metal is too soft and it damages the plug. Platinum plugs come pre-gapped for this reason. Let's pull a plug and match up to the old one to make sure it has the same reach.
Next, let the engine idle and unplug one fuel injector connector or one coil electrical connector (whichever is easiest to get at) and listen to the idle. It should drop and the engine should shake. When you locate a cylinder that this doesn't happen, you have isolated the problem cylinder. Pull the coil and plug and inspect the plug for any signs of damage. If everything seems o.k. then connect the plug to the coil outside of the engine. Run a jumper wire from the side electrode of the plug to a good engine ground and put a compression tester in the cylinder. Start the car, and check compression and check to see if the plug is firing. If it isn't try another plug and repeat the test. If the second plug doesn't fire make sure the wiring to the coil is o.k. and check the plug boot to make sure the spring inside is not distorted. It should be near the bottom of the boot so it makes a connection with the spark plug. Hit back and let us know what you find.

Steve






 
 
 






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