Changing Spark Plugs

[Tempest]

Ok, now I know this should be a simple job, but simple things are not always as simple as they should be.

I'm considering changing the spark plugs on my Firestorm.
Never having done this before, is there a guide about how to do it/how to get to them, and what you need tool wise, or take of the bike to actually get the job done as easy as possible?

Thanks

[Wicky]

Spark plug spanner thread that should put you on track http://www.vtr1000.org/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=19230

+ If you haven't already downloaded the Honda VTR service manual, get it from the workshop knowledge-base sub-forum

For the front one I use the toolkit plug spanner and a couple or three long socket extender bars linked together that go between the front forks when undoing and tightening (make sure you''ve cleaned the front of the bike as road crap can acculate on and around the front pot). Rear one is simply tank off.

[Tempest]

thanks so it's an 18mm across flats box spanner with extenders between the front forks for the front one, and fuel tank off to get to the rear one.

And these plugs?

[Stratman]

Get one of the FireStorm toolkit spark plug spanners as they have a rubber insert which grips the plug. I just use a 10mm ring spanner on the end of that.

[darkember]

Remember to finger tighten when putting the new ones back in so as you can be sure as not to be cross threading them before torquing them up to 10 ft pounds. Also the rear one can be removed without taking the tank off. All you need to do is use the rear tank lifting tool to gain access.

[Tempest]

thanks for advice.
I just been out to take a look. Bloody deep ain't they?

I've seen dinosaur remains that are nearer the surface !

Looked through my socket selection and almost got one the right size.
Without actually being able to see the plug (working blind) it's hard to know if I'm on it or not.

Can anyone confirm the exact A/F Size of the metal hexagon on the plugs?

Yes, may have to invest in the proper tool if all else fails.
I have loads of tools, and normally manage to find something that fits.

Oh, and also, thanks, Yes, I've done the tank prop up thing before

[BigVeeGrin]

did this at the weekend and used a lump of wood for the tank prop and one of these (£5) in the absence of the correct tool etc.

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stor ... yId_165469

[Tempest]

Thanks.

Yeah I could pop down the road and get one of those.
Must be honest, seeing as it's got to be undone with it in the straight position, I'm worried I may snap the thing undoing the plug!
Is it stronger than it looks?

I'm not sure how I'd torque it back up. Guesswork?

[Wicky]

Page 51-52 in the downloadable PDF VTR service manual

Clean around the spark plug bases with compressed air before removing the plugs, and be sure that no debris is allowed to enter the combustion chamber.

...

With the plug washer attached, screw the spark plug in by hand to avoid cross threading

Tighten the spark plug.
TOROUE: 14 N-m 11.4 kgf-m, 10 Ibf-ft

AlsoSpark Plug Installation Instructions : http://www.ngksparkplugs.com/techinfo/s ... lation.asp