How to change spark plugs?

[Mile9c1]

I just bought a 2001 Hayabusa. Any tips for changing the spark plugs? I can't even see them!!! TIA <i></i>

[peter altas]

hi,

i'm guessing by your question you have limited knowledge of servicing motors. This is a basic run through, but you should have some basic mechanical aptitude if you plan to not damage anything.

I'm guessing you've already lifted and propped up the fuel tank (prop bar is in the boot), if not, this is the first step.

Undo the screws holding the air filter cover. Remove and inspect air filter whilst it's out.

Undo the screws holding the rest of the air box cover to the engine.

You'll see 4 air inlet pipes and to the front of them, 4 spark plug covers. Tip: place a clean cloth over the air inlets to prevent foreign matter falling in.

Carefully pull the spark plug boots out from the boot - do not pull by the high tension leads!

Take out your spark-plug tool from your tool box (looks like a pipe spanner hinged in the middle) or use a spark-plug socket and wrench, and insert down the spark plug hole until it locates over the plug (check with a replacement spark plug to ensure you're using the correct size socket). Place a spanner to the end of the removal tool and smoothly and gently rotate anti-clockwise until the plug loosens. You can then continue to undo the plug by hand.

Inspect the plug as it's color will determine which plug you should use. If it's a light chocolate brown, use the same plug type.

Very important - insert the new plug and with tool gently tighten (in a clockwise direction) BY HAND to ensure true locating and to prevent stripping the threads. Continue to tighten by hand until the washer on the spark plug just makes contact with the engine. Then with a spanner on the spark plug tool turn an additional 1/4 of a turn only (if replacing a previously removed spark plug, tighten an additional 1/8 of a turn only)

Replace the spark plug boot with firm pressure and repeat for the other 3 plugs.

Note: If you do one at a time and clean around each of the plug holes before removing the plugs, you'll reduce the chances of foreign matter falling into the combustion chamber.

All of this is in your service manual with pictures to follow. If you don't have one, contact a Suzuki dealer and get one. <i></i>