How to Gap Iridium Spark Plugs

[@IanKarr]

If you find these videos helpful, I'd appreciate it if you'd subscribe...If I've saved you more than 3 bucks in time or parts, please click my Patreon link and join me for zoom calls, bonus content and swag. www.patreon.com/iankarr. Thanks!

[@Alexander-dt8sk]

It saved me damaging my iridium spark plug. Thanks!

[@IanKarr]

@@Alexander-dt8sk Glad it helped!

[@JoeMama-gx5gw]

OMG! Who would tap on the electrode like that????

[@wettosixecho]

Nice clean cut informative video. Something I just learned is that you can use the first plug gap tool to widen the gap without risking damaging the electrode. The hole in the center of that tool is apparently there to do that and not a keyring hole. You simply slide the ground electrode though the hole and pry it up while leveraging against the ground electrode itself. The more you know 😮

[@IanKarr]

Yep. Thanks for pointing that out. The only thing is that using that hole / tool creates a lot of leverage and it's almost impossible to pull it just a few thou. Definitely helpful when the gap is way off...but for tiny adjustments I prefer the pliers (although you need to be careful with those too)!

[@phonkyfeel1]

Coin gap tools are not all the same. So, be careful before following the increase gap direction here

[@bradkamphaus5529]

lmao, I have an S&S spark plug gapper on my key chain and never thought of this.. It's beat to shit too so there's no way it's accurate anymore.

[@jamesrobbison]

Perfect! Just what I needed, my Denso plugs for my 2012 Optima SX were gapped too narrow, and by watching how you bent the bar in shape with some needle nose pliers gave me exactly what I needed. Thanks so much!

[@IanKarr]

Glad it helped!

[@user2917]

Thanks for the information because there is a lot of people who want to go from copper plugs to iridium plugs keep boosting and be safe

[@IanKarr]

Glad to help!

[@AllKindsofGainz]

Hands down the BEST video on this topic available.

[@IanKarr]

Wow, thanks!

[@doctube2020]

Thanks for the straight to the point video + no annoying background music 👍

[@IanKarr]

glad you liked it!

[@efreutel]

Wat? No Barbra Streisand musak in the background? 🤡

[@warrenself]

Great video. I changed the spark plugs on a ‘10 Ford Edge 3.5 and went with NGK Iridium IX’s. Used a feeler gauge to check, and a pair of Snap-On Talon Grip needle nose to increase the gap.

[@IanKarr]

Nice work!

[@crm.carpentry]

Cheers Dan Aykroyd. Best video I've found on this subject. 👍

[@IanKarr]

Ha! Thanks man. I usually get the Aykroyd reference when I'm at the higher end of my weight ;)

[@masonhancock3679]

Super helpful video. Kept hearing a bunch of different things online. Thanks for clearing the confusion

[@IanKarr]

Glad it was helpful!

[@nadeem5476]

For opening or increasing the GAP u can use the same COIN with the Hole safely , no problem in it if u r using this in a correct way that applying pressure on the coin Downwards and the most of the part of the coin is outer side and towards you

[@IanKarr]

Very true. Thanks for mentioning. I find when I use the hole it puts too much leverage on the electrode and it's tough to move it just a few thou.

[@erayseyma]

Thank you. I got iridium plugs. I watched other vids with normal plugs... lucky I see this as I didn't know the difference of the brittle nibs with iridium....you saved me ruining my plugs. Thank you again

[@IanKarr]

Glad it helped

[@Condor1970]

I used one of those circle wedges. I didn't break any electrodes off, but I did notice it would be very easy to break them.

[@IanKarr]

yep!

[@billybbob18]

I did the exact same thing. I noticed that it looked breakable so I slid the tool carefully until the first resistance and feathered it back out. I recommend a feeler gauge.

[@KrishnaSingh-ow1ie]

How do you know if you broke the electrodes off. I use the that nickel circle gap. I didn't know before insaw this video.

[@Iwillnotbepushed]

Thank you. I’m putting Iridium plugs in my BMW. I would have gapped them the old way and probably ruined them.

[@IanKarr]

Glad my video was helpful!

[@frankgallego3782]

I changed and gapped 2 of the 4 new iridium spark splugs with the coin-type gapper before watching this video. How do I know if I damaged the spark plugs? I'll gladly take them out to check. What do I look for? Thank you.

[@IanKarr]

If the engine is running well they’re probably fine. To inspect them use a magnifying glass and ensure the tip isn’t chipped or cracked. Just using the coin type tapper doesn’t necessarily mean it did damage

[@frankgallego3782]

@@IanKarr Thank you for the quick response! I took the plugs out and checked them with a magnifying glass and they're fine. I'll be more careful next time. Best regards from The Florida Panhandle!

[@frankl3370]

Great info however I could not increase the gap using your method of trying to grab the sides of the top of the plug using various pliers, I had to use regular pliers with ridges on the claws (I found linesmen worked best due to longer handles and larger teeth to grab the end of the plug) and grab the end of the plug sideways from what you showed at a 120 degree angle or so (if you're a righty) and very slightly pull back the top of the plug which worked really well. So basically just bend back the top of the plug very carefully by lodging the top in one side of the pliers claws wedged in between the ridges. I overgapped 2x and your method of tapping on a vice worked great.

[@IanKarr]

Thanks for adding your experience!

[@Gdawg246]

This was very simple and incredibly helpful, definitely subscribing for more!

[@IanKarr]

Awesome, thank you!

[@mrsemifixit]

Thanks. Can the sliding action of the feeler gauge damage the coating on the center electrode at all?

[@IanKarr]

If you're careful, probably not.

[@josephbankhead9234]

i got my answer to my question of whether iridium tips would change the gap. sounds like it does'nt. THX.

[@IanKarr]

Cool. Always best to check the manufacturer's reccos.

[@teddward9550]

I was trying to widen the gap with pliers and I scuffed the sides of the ground electrode squeezing it with the pliers. Is that a problem?

[@IanKarr]

Probably not

[@tjs2001]

The wedge on a coin tool is not used to create the gap, it's used to measure. The coin is the perfect tool to measure and open the gap when used correctly.

[@IanKarr]

Absolutely correct that the wedge is used to measure. The problem is, by definition, the wedge is putting pressure between the tip and the electrode…which can damage the plug. Feeler gauges don’t wedge unless you force them, so I think they’re safer. The circle is used to open the gap, but the leverage is so extreme that it’s difficult to control.

[@raf900foss9]

I use iridium plugs in my motorcycles The gap is larger for good reason. Much better spark to ignite fuel/air mixture. Burns more complete gives more power.

[@IanKarr]

Yep

[@ultrapepe2905]

Where did you get that from as I'm wondering if it's because they wear less or iridiums are more universal as they're expensive so not made exactly for each vehicle so come gapped larger perhaps.

[@adnan.bashir]

Please guide if minimum the spark plug gap then car will be fuel economical or enhance the gap will be more fuel economical for car?

[@IanKarr]

Best to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for gap

[@greggircsis2264]

Consult your owners manual for what your car needs. Mine says do not gap pregapped spark plugs. They come pregapped for a reason.

[@IanKarr]

Ideally you can use them out of the box. Sometimes the specified gap isn’t available.

[@greggircsis2264]

My gap in my owners manual says .043. The plugs came in at .040. I went by the owners manual and didnt mess with them and they are fine. Spark plugs now even if there is a small variation in gap will compensate to make up size variations. Gapping plugs is mainly an old school of thought. ​@@IanKarr

[@mrsemifixit]

My feeler gauges have a thin layer of oil to prevent rusting, would I need to spray the plugs with brake clean to get any of it off that may have transfer over after checking the gap?

[@IanKarr]

I don't think so. It's so minimal..and after one combustion stroke any residue will be vaporized.

[@efreutel]

Every time I tap the plug my 4 chihuahuas go nuts. They think it’s the UPS guy at the front door.

[@IanKarr]

Ha! hopefully you don't have to do that often...

[@illwayz313]

Hi I I gapped my iridium nog plugs with the round tool and my tips still seem ok. Is it risky to try and use them now? I read about improperly gapped plugs breaking during spark and leaving pieces in the cylinder!

[@IanKarr]

Hi Mike. I'm not sure. If you put any pressure on the tips, I'd probably stay away from using them. But they're so fragile, they'd probably break rather than just crack

[@bensongeorgesadock1254]

U please help me can this plug generate current

[@IanKarr]

not sure what you mean.

[@charlesfritz7327]

If my original copper plugs gap at .028, and the iridium plugs I am buying are gapped at .04, do I need to go all the way back to the original factory gap on the new plugs?

[@IanKarr]

Hi Charles. Your gap should always be what the manufacturer recommends.

[@charlesfritz7327]

@@IanKarr thank you so much

[@HugoR12005]

Which type do you use on the 914? BPR6EIX or the BPR67EIX ?

[@IanKarr]

I use regular plugs on my 914s ;)

[@natespnwadventures]

What happens if your brother gaps it with the traditional gap coin and damages the iridium electrode?

[@IanKarr]

if the electrode is damaged, replace the plug. And scold your brother ;)

[@natespnwadventures]

@@IanKarr i did both lol. 4runner is running right again 😎

[@AirCooledDesigns]

Great video, thanks for sharing. what iridium spark plug are you using on your 914 engine. I have a 914 2.0l and I'm not sure witch plug to use, BPR6-7? so many choices. I looked on 914 Rubber, and nothing. Thank you Ian.

[@IanKarr]

Hi. I don’t use iridium on my 914s. I like the BPR7

[@OIPAEZ]

I put some iridium spark plugs on my 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 truck there good, the truck feel good and it feels it got a little more horsepower, but the downside of it now I need to use premium gas, I can’t not use regular gas or mid-grade if I use it the engine will start knocking...

[@IanKarr]

That sounds more like a timing issue...

[@wickedninja8599]

How can you tell if you damaged the iridium tip? Would it be obvious?

[@IanKarr]

Yep. They just break and no longer have a point.

[@lijulal5716]

Cpr6ea9 normel spark plug v/s wich iridium plug use me..??? Plz answer.

[@IanKarr]

Best to check your manual or owners forum

[@lijulal5716]

@@IanKarr suzuki outbord marine 6hp. 2015 model. Tnz👍

[@luismanuelramirezdiaz1892]

I recently installed the ngk iridium ix spark plugs for my mustang gt, they come pre-calibrated to .44 but the user manual indicates calibrate to .52, so I proceeded to calibrate them with the coin calibrator, but apparently I exerted pressure on the electrode to adjust. How can I know if I accidentally damaged the spark plug or are they completely fine?

[@IanKarr]

They're brittle, so if you damaged, you'd probably feel it snap and/or see that the tip is broken. I broke a few myself, so...it's pretty clear.

[@keyvanmohajertaleghani2725]

Thanks a lot, I was wondering how to do it,

[@IanKarr]

Glad I could help

[@joseduranjr3152]

Is the gap supposed to be at spec but a tad wider or closer. What’s the difference?

[@IanKarr]

It's supposed to be at spec. The gap affects combustion efficiency. Too close and the spark will be weak. Too wide and the spark may not jump that gap reliably. It's a goldilocks thing ;)

[@DaEverything1]

is it ok to touch the electrode with the feeler gauge

[@IanKarr]

It will need to contact a little to measure. Just don't put pressure on it.

[@sunilayya8948]

How often should we check the gap in iridium plugs? Thanks for the v useful video.

[@IanKarr]

Hi Odris. You should only need to gap them when you install.

[@sunilayya8948]

@@IanKarr many thanks for clearing that up for me.

[@VV-zb2sz]

For my bike Factory default gap setting is 0.7 to 0.8 mm. I bought NGK iridium plugs according to official NGK chart. According to NGK chart the size of spark plugs is 0.9mm. So should i reduce the gap of ngk plugs to get the factory settings from 0.7 to 0.8mm or is it ok with 0.9mm.

[@IanKarr]

Always best to go with factory recommendations. Especially when all you have to do is tap the electrode closed a bit. Good luck and be safe!

[@VV-zb2sz]

@@IanKarr is it harmful for bike if use NGK gap presetting that is 0.9 mm. Is there any big risk to use 0 9 mm instead of gap 0.7 to 0.8mm. In review many users uses ngk gap settings 0.9mm for the same model of bike as mine . But some usrs says that NGk gap setting should not be changed. What should i do...

[@VV-zb2sz]

For reduce the gap ..should i follow tha way as you tell in your video. If any scratch comes on ground electrode on iridium spark plugs..will this effect on performance?

[@IanKarr]

V V if you just tap lightly (you only need a tiny little bit of closure) on a clean flat surface. You shouldn’t have any scratches. 3-5 decent taps should do it.

[@briano3128]

Awesome,thanks!

[@IanKarr]

glad you enjoyed!

[@YoPierrrr]

Very informative

[@IanKarr]

Glad you found the video helpful!

[@adolfo98063]

Thanks. Very understandable

[@IanKarr]

Thanks! Appreciate the feedback

[@tdbone35]

The best way to do this is with a spark plug gapping tool that twist the ground electrode towards the proper gap. SIMPLY screw rhe spark plug into the gapping tool and use a feeler gauge to reach proper gap without messing with the center electrode

[@IanKarr]

Thanks Tracy!

[@rafalemus7218]

I accidentally touched and possibly scraped the porcelain is the plug no longer any good???

[@rafalemus7218]

Just to add to the comment it's not broken or cracked just a tiny scuff mark

[@IanKarr]

touching the porcelain shouldn't be a problem. Just make sure it isn't cracked. It's only an insulator protecting the center electrode. If it's intact, it will do its job. And they're pretty tough to begin with!

[@rafalemus7218]

@@IanKarr thank you for the reply appreciate it.

[@bensongeorgesadock1254]

Sorry somebody say that the spark plugs like iridium can generate current electricity is true or false? Please help me farther

[@IanKarr]

spark plugs are conduits for electricity. they can't generate it

[@regigilman2255]

I've been adjusting plugs for so many yrs and always used a wire cuter . (Side cutter) to open or close ground strap use the cutting to pry open the ground strap and the flats of the pliers to tap it close don't mind me I am I and you all are who you are just want you all to know how I do my plugs sorry I did not intend to offend any one just trying to add my opinion

[@IanKarr]

Thanks for sharing your method. Lots of ways to approach most everything!

[@steveolive9991]

What about bending the side electrode with a spark plug gap tool (U-slot) to increase or decrease the gap???

[@IanKarr]

Definitely doable. I just find that, for thousandths of an inch, I almost always wayyy overshoot when I use the tool...

[@EndlessPursuitTV]

Had head phones on. Now im deaf. Thanks for that intro

[@IanKarr]

Sorry...I can't hear you ;)

[@universalhouse806]

así no se cierra el electrodo negativo, nunca se deve de golpear!!! la forma correcta es con el mismo calibrador tiene un agujero con el que tienes que hacer palanca

[@IanKarr]

Sí, se puede usar la herramienta del agujero en el círculo, pero encuentro que el apalancamiento es excesivo y mueve demasiado el electrodo. por lo general, solo necesita moverse unas pocas milésimas de pulgada, lo que requiere un toque suave

[@micklangford9030]

Hi Why not use the proper tool available at any parts store. ML

[@IanKarr]

Proper tool for what?

[@gtaashwagandhaman7551]

Well, I used the coin style on my Iridium plugs because the blades are too small, so Idk how anybody can use that for checking your gap because the blades only go up to 0.035🤷 I gapped my plugs to a 0.065 and the car runs fine, I just hope I didn't cause damage or too much damage then?!🥴

[@IanKarr]

As long as the plug is gapped to your manufacturer’s specs you’re good. You can get feeler gauges in a wide range…

[@gtaashwagandhaman7551]

@IanKarr ok so I have a 2.8mpfi engine so I got these 47,000 Volt coils from ZZP, the coils are for a 3800 but they don't say they fit other gm V6 but I found out my own way👌 Fabricated bigger wires and gapped the Iriduim plugs and MAN Let me tell ya! The car Snaps and Twerks that when I shifted into Second I thought I broke a motor mount for a moment😵 Made a hell of a nice ignition system for a 2.8mpfi, shifted that B1T€H At like 5600-5700 rpm Shifts... it's just WOW What a difference

[@dannyspitzer1267]

Great tips, thanks !

[@IanKarr]

Glad it was helpful!

[@cholosoy8511]

To all the haters: I’ve been using the tapping method on iridium plugs for almost 6 years now and I’ve never had a problem. Also, it might be luck, but I’ve never broken a tip using the disc.

[@IanKarr]

Thanks for the feedback Cholo!

[@kwak1k]

You're probably not getting max performance though....

[@khbentaher]

Thank you for the video, very helpful

[@IanKarr]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lezchislett51]

I dont think much people know how to use the round gap tester. Dont use the the ascending ramp to gap, only to measure, to gap the plug use the hole in the tool that is what it is for.

[@IanKarr]

True. but the nature of that scale means at least some wedging is happening. I find the hole creates way too much torque and it's difficult to get things to open up by just a few thou.

[@hobosharklawnmower]

thee tool u said not to use works fine to increase the gap . u use the hole in the back of it and it wont touch the center of the plug.

[@IanKarr]

Yep. you can definitely use that hole to open the gap. I don't love that it puts a lot of leverage on the electrode and you frequently need to tap it back down after using it. We're talking about thousandths of an inch, so you don't need much to make a difference.

[@215sinakia7]

Great vid brotha

[@IanKarr]

Thanks!

[@MWilliamsVTGrrrl]

Thank you Ian!

[@IanKarr]

My pleasure! Please subscribe...lots more fun to come!

[@adoreslaurel]

I suppose you could grasp the outer electrode in a vise and gently bend it either way.

[@IanKarr]

I think that would be overkill and difficult to get precision. We're talking about thousandths of an inch, so It takes a light touch...

[@adoreslaurel]

Always wondered how critical gap is in modern cars where the modern ignition systems are capable of greater voltage.

[@slcommitment]

perfect 👍👌

[@IanKarr]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@davananramgoolie6313]

What is the best spark plugs for CNG c25 engine

[@IanKarr]

I wish I could offer advice, but I'm not familiar with that engine. Best to check your owner's manual or ask the manufacturer.

[@JoeMama-gx5gw]

Do not beat your plugs like thìs guy. Buy the correct gapping tool!

[@IanKarr]

Beat?

[@RacerXGTO]

:47 dOh!!!! Now you tell me. Too late. Anyways, gapped my Iridium plug with the puck, didn't break it, though. I always gently slide them into the plug gap, because that's just common sense to not manhandle the gap tools??? Maybe I'm alone in that category?? The car runs fine. No weird things happening with the ignition. heh, c' est la vie!

[@IanKarr]

Lots of right ways to do things!

[@tristanstacey452]

Following up I found some were more pliable than others

[@IanKarr]

If you can feel or see the electrode move, you're using too much force.

[@Twinturbomach]

Is it okay if you scratch the outter electrode with the needles nose while trying to open the gap. I scratched it a little

[@IanKarr]

I guess it depends on how and where the scratch is. If it's on the sides or top (facing away from the electrode), it's probably ok. Surprised you needed to open the gap wider!

[@Twinturbomach]

Yes it’s on the sides and tops and it’s because my car is supercharged had to gap at .032

[@IanKarr]

@@Twinturbomach Cool. The biggest concern I'd have is whether small metal particles could come loose from the plug and get into the engine.

[@Twinturbomach]

Ian Karr I’ll make sure there is no lose pieces of metal on the plug it’s more or less scratched/chipped a little on one or 2 of the plugs not terrible. I don’t think any metal would fall off it

[@teddward9550]

I know this is 4 years old but did you have any problems after installing your spark plugs?

[@furtiveness]

Thanks for the tips!

[@IanKarr]

Happy to help!

[@elroco4827]

I wouldn’t gap or use any tool to check iridium. I’ll just eyeball and compare the gap of the old plugs, with the new. If it looks about the same, I’m installing those bad boys.

[@IanKarr]

We all have our methods :) I find it hard to see a few thousandths of an inch.

[@TabascoConnoisseur]

Does no one know what the hole is for on the coin? Jesus.... you do not wedge the gapping coin, use the hole.

[@IanKarr]

You're totally right in that most people don't know that the hole is there to pull up on the electrode. But when measuring to determine the gap, the wedging nature of the tool can put more stress on the tip than a single, flat feeler. I could've probably been clearer about that...but KZbin unfortunately doesn't allow you to revise/replace videos. I also find that the hole creates so much leverage that it's tough to pull by a few thou...which is why I prefer the pliers. We all have our methods. As long as we're safe and don't break stuff, it's good! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment.

[@Carwash1989]

thanks for the video... wasnt sure i could just tap them in front of my Autozone to make them work :D

[@IanKarr]

ha! I'm sure much worse happens in front of Autozones.

[@JVanHarlinger]

Thanks!

[@IanKarr]

Sorry for the delay. Glad you found the video helpful!

[@lilstevo74]

Ummm no...the small circle on a traditional gap tool will let you open the gap without even touching center electrode

[@IanKarr]

True. But in my experience the leverage that tool generates is far too much to simply open the gap by a few thou.

[@shanehenderson1910]

Thanks almost made the mistake

[@IanKarr]

Glad you didn’t!

[@ivantrevino298]

Thanks

[@IanKarr]

Welcome Ivan!

[@tristanstacey452]

I found that when I closed the gap too much it took some manhandling to get it larger but I’m probably weaker than the average mechanic

[@IanKarr]

We're talking about thousands of an inch. go slow with steady force ;)

[@zerchdafirst5994]

Personally I don't recommend to tap the spark plug like that used the right tool

[@IanKarr]

We all have our ways of getting there ;)

[@KrishnaSingh-ow1ie]

Dame I use that nickel tool

[@IanKarr]

It has its place if you’re careful

[@2035solidsnake]

the first thing he says is don't use that gap gauge ahaha fk me. I just bought one.......

[@IanKarr]

You can definitely use it on non-iridium ones. Also, the hole in the top can be used to open gaps...but you need to be careful. Lots of leverage there.

[@rompenoco1]

Brutal ,no way I’m going bang a $10 spark plug

[@IanKarr]

Totally understood. But I’d rather have the 10 plug gapped correctly before I put it in my 50K car.

[@mobleyMobley]

Ngk told me not to gap them, doesn't matter much on iridium plugs because they fire so well.

[@IanKarr]

Always a good idea to follow the manufacturer's directions...

[@detounchin]

NO! You never hit a spark, no way!

[@IanKarr]

ok

[@kevinhall3003]

If you bought the correct plugs - you would not have to gap them.

[@IanKarr]

Ideally yes. But classic cars often require an uncommon gap.

[@NebuChadNezzarKBDN]

Tapping plugs? Please stop misinforming people and use a proper gap tool. It's 2021.

[@IanKarr]

This method may be low-tech, but it works. Feel free to suggest tools and other methods if you like.

[@mcnuggetapple]

It’s 2023 and he still hasn’t listed another way

[@samuelcf97]

What do we use in 2023?

[@JR-kl3cp]

He's not misinforming people he's giving an advice on what he's learnt. If you have a better way then post a video.

[@IamStereoTypedEnt]

Damn I believe I may have 🤬mine up by using the gage with ridges 🤦‍♂️ you live and learn thanks for the video.

[@yobyob4899]

Crap 😂😅

[@IanKarr]

Crap?

[@nashdale6715]

DO NOT GAP IRIDIUM SPARK PLUGS PERIOD THEY'RE FACTORY PRE GAP

[@IanKarr]

Absolutely. Assuming you can find ones that are pre-gapped to your engine's recommended specs. Otherwise, you may want to gap them.

[@northuniverse]

That's what I thought too. Turns out, not always the case.

[@riggs2150]

Nash Dale The amount you don't know could fill volumes. Factory pre-gapped for WHAT VEHICLE? You seriously think all engine platforms use the same exact gap?

[@josh885]

Wrong. First not every vehicle needs a gap that you can buy factor gaped plugs for. Secondly you can't assume the gap is correct just because it says it is on the box. Manufacturing errors, impacts from shipping or a store clerk dropping the box while stocking, ect can cause the gap to be out of spec. We are talking thousands of an inch. It does not take much force to move them out of spec. You have to check period.

[@Hoodie2103]

No lmao. Do not tap your spark plugs to gap them. Use the proper tool to pull or push the ground strap.

[@IanKarr]

Please post a link to the tool tou use