Ceramic deposits have appeared - change the spark plugs immediately!
In terms of their operational parameters, including durability, all components of the listed items are almost the same from each other.
This is confirmed by reviews from car owners expressed on various forums, etc. Perhaps there are more expensive components, the use of which will allow a simple replacement to increase power, engine torque or some other characteristics. But having installed such spark plugs in the 21126 engine, you will most likely have to forget about the warranty on the AY-K3 gearbox. It’s always like this with technology: we need to imagine what exactly we are doing and what we want to achieve as a result. Indications for replacing spark plugs:
- If there is black soot (“suede”) on the insulator cone and electrodes, then cleaning or replacement can be done. Cleaning is carried out, among other things, by heating. When replacing, it is better to use spark plugs with a slightly lower heat value than before;
- If the surface of the insulator looks like yellowish glossy ceramic, then the spark plug needs to be replaced. In this case, a glassy glaze is formed. It is electrically conductive.
In the first of the cases considered, carbon deposits are formed because not all elements of the candle are heated sufficiently, and self-cleaning does not occur. This can happen when the car is used for short trips with low speeds and frequent starts and stops. The same effect is typical for operating the motor at low temperatures. Logically, in such situations, the recommended replacement would be a spark plug with a lower heat rating than what was intended by the manufacturer. You can try installing A14DVRM spark plugs instead of A17DVRM in an 8-valve engine, and so on. Only now, such a replacement must be discussed with the dealer.
What to do?
All work on replacing the SZ must be carried out only on a cold engine: without reducing the threaded hole due to expansion.
WD-40 is poured into the working area of the stuck SZ. A few hours of “soaking” is usually enough to remove accumulated scale. Then the spark plug is lightly tapped and an attempt is made to unscrew it. Often, to enhance the torque, an additional arm is used - a crank.
If these methods are not successful, it is better not to tempt fate and trust professional repairmen.
Spark plugs for Kalina, Priora and Grant - which ones to choose?
Lada Kalina (1st and 2nd generations), Granta and Priora were equipped with both 8 and 16 valve engines. And although they differed for each car, they were still structurally very similar. Therefore, the same spark plugs were installed on all three cars; the differences are only in the article numbers. Spark plugs, as mentioned above, differ on all cars only depending on the number of valves in the engine.
In the original, all three cars are equipped with ordinary nickel spark plugs, with one ground electrode. The main differences between the spark plug for 8- and 16-valve engines are the size of the key for screwing it in.
More details about sizes and original articles in the table below.
vendor code | Number of engine valves | Thread / thread length, mm | Key size | Gap, mm | Heat number* | Center electrode material |
21120-3707010-00 (for Priora), 21110-3707010-00 (for Kalina and Granta) | 8 valves | M14×1.25 / 19 | 20.8 | 1 | 17 | Nickel |
21120-3707010-01 (Priora), 21110-3707010-01 (Kalina 1), 21110-3707010-03 (Kalina 2, Granta) | 16 valves | M14×1.25 / 19 | 16 | 1 | 17 | Nickel |
*According to Champion nomenclature (Russian standard)
Despite the fact that each car has a different article number of original spark plugs, they are interchangeable. Original spark plugs can be found on sale directly from the manufacturer “ZAZS”. For 8-valve engines they have article number A17DVRM, and for 16-valve engines - AU17DVRM.
The most well-known replacement models from other manufacturers are presented below.
Manufacturer | vendor code | Price, rub (for 1 piece) |
Analogs for 8-valve engines | ||
NGK | BPR6ES | 140 |
Bosch | 0242235663 | 100 |
Denso | W20EPR-U | 100 |
Analogues for 16-valve engines | ||
NGK | BCPR6E-11 | 150 |
Francecar | FCR211044 | 70 |
Denso | Q20PR-U11 | 120 |
When to change spark plugs on Priora, Kalina and Grant?
According to the maintenance regulations for Lada Kalina, Granta and Priora, spark plugs must be changed every 30 thousand km. mileage, regardless of the configuration of the car, or how many valves the engine has. But, this indicator is strongly influenced by some factors, such as fuel quality, operating conditions, etc. Therefore, in fact, their service life on average is somewhere around 20-25 thousand km.
The vagaries and failures in the Lada Granta engine depend on many reasons. One of them: the work - good or not - of the spark plugs. Therefore, the list of necessary checks should always include monitoring their condition. Faulty Lada Granta spark plugs will inevitably lead to unstable engine operation.
Ignition system
A 1.6-liter 4-cylinder power unit is hidden under the hood of the car. There are differences in the power and design of the VAZ-2190 gasoline engine. It can have 8 or 16 valves. Depending on the design of the motor, the power ranges from 82 to 120 hp.
The operation of the engine ignition system is coordinated by an electronic control unit (ECU). The unit controller receives and processes signals from the sensors, generates voltage and sends it to the ignition coil, which is produced in two types. On a 16-valve engine, the coils are located in 4 separate cases, and on an 8-valve engine, a single-case step-up transformer design is installed. This Lada Granta ignition coil has 1 primary winding with a middle terminal and 2 secondary windings. The terminals of each secondary winding are connected to the central electrodes of the spark plugs.
The Lada Granta with an 8-valve engine uses the “idle” spark method. The peculiarity of this switching scheme is that the spark jumps in 2 cylinders at the same time: in one the working spark ignites the fuel, and in the other it fires idle.
Carrying out work on replacing spark plugs
Next we make a replacement. Moreover, it is recommended to change all spark plugs at once, even if only one of them is not working. In this case, you will need a few tools:
Set of keys for replacing spark plugs
- spark plug wrench or special spark plug head and wrench;
- rags;
- new set of spark plugs;
- screwdrivers and keys (not always).
Since car power plants have different design features, there are also certain nuances in performing the work. Therefore, let's look at how it changes on different machines.
Video: Replacing spark plugs. VAZ 2107
https://youtube.com/watch?v=nVrf7Q2jBKo
First, let's look at how everything is done on a simple engine design. An example is the carburetor version of the VAZ-2107. So, having prepared the tool, you can proceed:
- We park the car on the platform, if the engine is warm, let it cool.
- The spark plugs are installed on the upper right side of the engine (if you stand in front of the car). High-voltage wires from the distributor (distributor) go to them.
- We remove the tip from the spark plug of the first cylinder, put the key on the edge of the spark plug and unscrew it (counterclockwise).
- We close the hole with a piece of rags (to prevent accidental entry of debris into the cylinders), but so that it can be removed.
- We take a new spark plug, remove the rag, screw it in, and then tighten it with a wrench. In this case, you need to pull moderately, since the hole is made in the head, the material of which is aluminum, it will not be difficult to break the thread. After tightening, put on the tip.
- Let's move on to the next candle.
Feel the difference - old and new spark plug.
Replacing spark plugs on Lada Priora
Let's move on to a more complex motor design. An example is the Lada Priora with a 16-valve cylinder head. This engine has spark plugs in wells made in the upper part of the head. Each candle has its own coil, which is placed directly on it. They change like this:
- We park the car and wait until the engine cools down.
- Remove the upper protective cover of the motor.
- Disconnect the wire block going to the coil.
- We unscrew the bolt securing the coil, and then remove it.
- We reach the candle head with an extension to the spark plug, put it on and unscrew the element. Carefully remove it (you can use the removed coil for this). We put it on the unscrewed candle and pull it out.
- Carefully lower the new spark plug, screw it in, tighten it (moderately), put the coil in place, secure it with a bolt, and connect the block.
- Similarly, we change all subsequent elements.
Video: Subaru Forester SG. Replacing spark plugs.
The most difficult thing to change spark plugs is from cars that use engines that have a special design. Such cars, for example, are Subaru cars. They use boxer power plants. Therefore, getting to the candles is not so easy. The easiest way to change them is to remove the engine from the car.
But it is quite possible, although far from easy, to change them without removing the engine, but you will still have to dismantle and remove some elements from the engine compartment in order to provide at least some access. You will also need a full set of wrenches with extension rods and cardan shafts, as well as a spark plug head.
And then everything is as stated above. We get to the candle. We put the head on it, connect the rods and cardan shafts to ensure rotational movement. We unscrew the old element and install the new one.
Over the history of gasoline internal combustion engines, a lot has changed in them, but engineers still have not been able to abandon spark plugs. The condition of the spark plugs is one of the factors that determines the performance of the engine, so for most problems, the first recommendation is to inspect the spark plugs and test a new set.
Using a Spline or Torx bit
The easiest and least expensive way to unscrew a broken spark plug on a VAZ is to sacrifice a curly bat in the shape of an “asterisk”. To remove the spark plug you will need a Torx, Spline or other similar socket with a size of 12 mm. You need to put an extension on the bat and with a few precise blows drive it two or three millimeters into the neck of the clip stuck in the block.
It is better to pre-treat the candle with quick-acting lubricant or pour kerosene into the groove of the lid and leave it for a day. Unscrewing a broken spark plug is done using a ratchet handle counterclockwise. This method is suitable for candles that have broken off due to defects, but they are unlikely to be able to unscrew tightly tightened candles.
Types of candles, their structure
Not enough horsepower during acceleration, slow start, fuel consumption is growing at a gigantic rate, is the car shaking? You need to take a closer look at the heating system. These failures can occur for other reasons, but they are the clearest sign that the ignition is not working properly. Depending on the number of cylinders of the car, the number of spark plugs changes. Let's consider the components of the system design and their functionality:
- top terminal: ignition coil connection point;
- main body: high voltage generation and heat insulator;
- thread: screwing a product into the cylinder head;
- electrode: spark source, the most important element, the quality of the system depends on its reliability.
- center contact material;
- spark gap size;
- heat number (the higher it is, the less the product heats up);
- overall and connecting dimensions (length and thread pitch);
- number of side electrodes;
- resource of use;
- self-cleaning ability.
There is a variety that has become very popular - iridium spark plugs. Theoretically, their design has a thinner central wire diameter than others, it conducts current better and generates a more powerful spark, which greatly simplifies engine operation. There are many myths that iridium products significantly increase the performance and power of car engines; in practice, the increase in efficiency is not large. Let's look at the best types of glow systems in a little more detail:
Heaters perform the same function in diesel engines as the ignition system in gasoline engines. They are called "preheat plugs"
They are responsible for facilitating cold starts, which is especially important for diesel engines, which are increasingly found on our roads. The heater is a resistor designed to increase the temperature inside the combustion chamber
Its shape resembles a ballpoint pen, one end of which is heated before starting. It is important to remember that it is advisable to replace all elements at the same time so that the work is rhythmic. Plugs are elements that ignite a mixture of gasoline and air inside the combustion chamber. A spark is generated due to a difference in electrical potential. If the motor is operating normally, this process is repeated an average of 2000 times per minute.
If you replace the ignition system in time, you can avoid premature wear of other parts of the vehicle. If you notice any of the following signs, it's time to consider purchasing new devices:
- loss of power while driving;
- increased fuel consumption, because gasoline combustion occurs incorrectly due to a spark generated at the wrong time;
- difficulty starting, especially in cold weather, knocking when the engine is running;
- dark smoke on the exhaust.
Let's look at the process of attaching a new heating system, provide step-by-step instructions and tips for installing the product yourself at home.
Gap adjustment
Spark plug maintenance involves cleaning and adjusting the spark gap between the electrodes. It must be taken into account that it increases to the maximum permissible distance. During operation, metal parts wear out. The central straight electrode is rounded, and a depression is formed on the side curved plate. To prevent interruptions in spark formation, it is necessary to adjust the size of the spark gap. It is set with a probe within 1-1.5 mm. The feeler plate fits flush into the correctly set gap.
Replacement and Maintenance
The manufacturer recommends installing AU17DVRM brand spark plugs on a VAZ-2190 with an 8-valve version. These are domestic products of JSC ZAZS Russia. Its catalog number is 21110-3707010-00. Foreign analogues are spark plugs WD7DFC BOSH (Germany), BCPR6 ES-11 NGK (Japan), DR15YC BRISK (Czech Republic). It is advisable to change the complete set - all 4 pieces
When selecting spare parts, always pay attention to the technical specifications. For a spark plug, these are the diameter and length of the thread, the heat rating
The purchased brand of device must correspond to these three engine parameters. Even a small error in thread length can lead to failure.
Spark plug device
What does carbon deposits on spark plugs indicate?
The formation of soot of a light brown hue is considered normal. This color is acceptable, since during normal operation of the entire cylinder-piston group, a small accumulation of combustible substance residues occurs.
But if the spark plugs for a Lada Grant have significantly changed their color or an unusual coating has formed, you should carefully study its composition. Based on the color and type of soot, the following problems in transport operation can be identified:
1. Red soot indicates poor fuel quality, which definitely needs to be changed.
2. Black carbon deposits from the oil will indicate problems with the piston rings or timing caps. The formation of deposits indicates oil leakage. If the carbon deposits have a velvety appearance, then you will need to diagnose the car or adjust the operation of the control controller.
3. Dark, loose deposits will be an indicator for replacing both fuel and oil.
All the described cases allow you to continue to use previously installed candles. But if any damage is detected to one of the elements, it should be replaced immediately. For example, the electrode may be melted or there may be chips and cracks on the surface of the spark plug. All this will indicate the need to purchase new high-quality parts.
Clean or change
A very important question for Lada Granta owners: how often should the spark plugs be changed? According to the manufacturer's recommendations, this procedure should be done every 30 thousand km. But harsh practice shows that not all spare parts work for the allotted time. Premature replacement of Lada Granta spark plugs may be necessary if the following symptoms occur.
- When starting the engine, the starter spins for a longer time.
- While the engine is warming up or when driving in neutral, the engine makes strange sounds.
- Fuel consumption has increased.
- Engine power has dropped. This point is especially noticeable when trying to drive up a hill.
- When you unscrew the spark plugs, you discover that they are wet from gasoline. After wiping, after several hours of movement, the candles become wet again.
Symptoms of worn spark plugs
When spark plugs wear out, the following symptoms may appear:
- increased fuel consumption
- the engine is unstable (troits)
- the engine does not start the first time
Set of preparatory actions
When carrying out operations with electricity, first disconnect the battery - you need to remove the negative terminal. The nut on the terminal is unscrewed with a flat wrench “10”. Next, if we talk about motor 11183, you need to remove the plastic cover.
Surprise in the form of plastic protection
The part itself needs to be pulled up, snapping off all the rubber supports one by one. It would be better to unscrew the filler cap first.
The 8-valve engines of the Lada Granta family are very similar, the difference in power is due to the use of different connecting rod and piston groups. Due to different SHPGs, the engine that Grant inherited from Kalina (11183) does not bend the valves. But valves 11186 and 21116 are bent. To prevent this from happening, we recommend following the technical regulations for servicing and replacing the timing belt.
We need part "2"
If you lose the supports, it doesn’t matter, they can be replaced. Support number in the VAZ catalog: 21120-1008658-00 (or 01).
The next step is to disconnect the high-voltage wires. Each plastic tip can be removed by hand (see photo). It is simply pulled out by rocking the body from side to side.
Location of spark plugs and protective caps
Pull the tip up
If you lack skill, it will be easy to damage the wire itself. Be careful!
The third step is to clean the space next to the well. Use available materials.
There should be no dust near wells
Let the motor look at least as shown in the photo.
Drilling and unscrewing
If the first two methods do not help, you will need to remove the cylinder head cover and drill a hole in the spark plug holder. A special sleeve of the appropriate diameter is screwed into it, having either a hexagonal notch or a thread on the inside. This operation cannot be carried out on the engine, since there is a high risk of chips and metal dust getting into the working area of the cylinder.
It is better to take the cylinder head cover to a turning workshop, where the hole and installation of the “screw plug” will be done as carefully and accurately as possible, without damaging the thread. In any case, disassembling the cylinder head can serve as an excellent reason for routine repairs of the gas distribution mechanism, piston system and replacement of gaskets.
Signs of wear on modern spark plugs
After what mileage to change spark plugs is usually indicated in the car’s instructions or in recommendations to official dealers, however, the fact that these data differ greatly suggests that manufacturers do not have a common opinion on this matter. This depends on many factors, not the least of which is the reliability of other components of the ignition system. The fact is that the electrical resistance between the coil and the spark plug is one of the main parameters for the stable operation of the ignition system. That is why manufacturers strive to minimize the number of parts in the system - the desire to reduce resistance, in particular, is associated with the almost universal rejection of high-voltage wires.
However, this also has a downside - any malfunctions that lead to a change in the resistance for which the system is designed can cause systematic overheating of the ignition coil, which leads to its premature failure. Of all the elements of the system, it is the spark plugs that are most exposed to external factors - the formation of soot and burnout of the electrodes greatly affect the overall resistance of the electrical circuit. Therefore, some manufacturers are playing it safe, recommending changing spark plugs more often and thereby preserving the life of a more expensive part - the ignition coil. According to this logic, many car enthusiasts prefer to change spark plugs “based on condition” rather than “based on mileage.”
System operating mode
A car's spark plug creates a spark to burn the fuel mixture in the cylinder. Parts work in difficult conditions. They are subject to high thermal and electrical loads. The temperature regime of the working surfaces of the spark plugs inside the combustion chamber reaches 900°C. On the Lada Granta, an arc electric discharge between 2 electrodes is created with a voltage of 30-40 kV.
Heavy duty work affects the service life. Carbon deposits form on the surface of the insulator and the metal electrodes burn. The temperature regime is determined by the loads in the combustion chamber. Like all parts, spark plugs must withstand mechanical and thermal disturbances. The driver must remember that excessive overheating leads to damage to parts of the ignition system and engine. If the coolant overheat warning lamp on the instrument panel lights up red, then measures must be taken to cool the unit. It is necessary to disable the ignition switch of the Lada Granta. The engine housing must cool for at least 30 minutes.
Stable operation of the spark plugs is one of the conditions for the normal functioning of the engine. Trouble-free operation of the ignition system depends on compliance with the following rules:
- Install spark plugs with the characteristics specified in the AvtoVAZ instructions.
- Follow the instructions for replacing parts. On average, spark plugs can be used for 30 thousand kilometers for electronic ignition.
- Carry out regular maintenance.
- Use high-quality motor oil and gasoline.
- Observe the engine temperature.
➤ Spark plugs for Lada Granta: selection, cleaning, replacement
The vagaries and failures in the Lada Granta engine depend on many reasons. One of them: the work - good or not - of the spark plugs. Therefore, the list of necessary checks should always include monitoring their condition. Faulty Lada Granta spark plugs will inevitably lead to unstable engine operation.
Clean or change
A very important question for Lada Granta owners: how often should the spark plugs be changed? According to the manufacturer's recommendations, this procedure should be done every 30 thousand km. But harsh practice shows that not all spare parts work for the allotted time. Premature replacement of Lada Granta spark plugs may be necessary if the following symptoms occur.
- When starting the engine, the starter spins for a longer time.
- While the engine is warming up or when driving in neutral, the engine makes strange sounds.
- Fuel consumption has increased.
- Engine power has dropped. This point is especially noticeable when trying to drive up a hill.
- When you unscrew the spark plugs, you discover that they are wet from gasoline. After wiping, after several hours of movement, the candles become wet again.
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Cleaning spark plugs
If you find carbon deposits on these parts, it is not at all necessary that you will need to replace the Lada Granta 16 or 8 valve spark plugs. In many cases, it is enough to clean the existing ones. Especially if the car has not covered very many kilometers since the last replacement. It all depends on the type of soot.
- Brown, gray-yellow coating with slight wear of the electrodes. Both the spark plug and the motor are in good working order.
- Black coating of a velvety structure with a touch of soot. Either late ignition or too rich air-fuel mixture. The air filter and DTOZh must be checked.
- Oily coating. Caused by lubricant entering the combustion chamber. Possible causes include: wear of valve stem seals, piston rings, and valve bushings.
- Red soot. Appears when there are anti-knock additives in the fuel. Or the exhaust gas neutralizer has failed.
- White soot. Low quality fuel was used or the ignition timing parameters were set incorrectly.
- Ash soot. Looks like a light brown crust. The cause of the problem may be the valve stem seals.
In cases 1, 2 and 5, the spark plugs can be cleaned and used further. In 3 and 4, replacement of spark plugs is required. In the latter, it is better to install new candles, but if this is not possible, you can temporarily use the old ones after cleaning.
To restore the functionality of the candles, you need to follow this algorithm.
- Disconnect battery.
- Remove the spark plugs.
- Check the elements for the possibility of further use by analyzing the type of plaque on them.
- Pour cleaning product into the container. You can use a disposable glass.
- Dip candles into the composition and soak them in it for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Rinse the elements under cool running water, and then treat with gasoline.
- Use a brush or brush to remove any remaining dirt and wipe the spark plugs dry.
- Check with a feeler gauge whether the remanufactured spark plug meets the requirements. Lada Granta gaps should be within the limits between 1 and 1.13 mm.
- If necessary, adjust the gap of the Lada Granta spark plugs by bending the side electrode.
- Install the restored candles in their proper place.
We recommend: Error 0441 on Lada Kalina: reasons, how to fix?
Replacement on 8-valve models
Before changing the spark plugs of a Lada Granta of any configuration, you should disconnect the battery, for which the negative terminal is removed from it. Next, we change the spark plugs on the Lada Granta in accordance with the following algorithm.
- We dismantle the tips.
- We clean the dust and dirt around the candles - foreign inclusions should not get into the wells.
- Use a socket or a special 21 key to unscrew the elements.
- We screw new spark plugs into their place. First by hand, then we tighten it with a key.
- We return the tips to their place. If you have forgotten which of them corresponds to which element, check the numbering on the ignition coil.
Replacement on 16-valve models
If the engine on your Lada Granta is equipped with 16 valves, the process of replacing spark plugs will be somewhat more complicated. After de-energizing, proceed as follows.
- We dismantle the decorative panel.
- Press the latch without excessive zeal.
- We turn off the ignition coils - this modification of the engine has a personal coil for each spark plug. To do this, use an E-6 asterisk to unscrew the bolts and remove the coils.
- Using a 16mm spark plug wrench, unscrew the element to be removed and screw in the new one.
We put on the coil, tighten it and connect the wire plug.
All that remains is to put the lid back in place, and you’re done.
Power Sport
These racing spark plugs are designed to improve fuel economy, provide smooth acceleration and quick starts. They are sealed and have a 100 percent copper core for durability and improved heat transfer. They have multi-fin isolators to prevent misfire and are designed to work with performance modifications.
Your car will perform noticeably better as soon as you install these spark plugs. They increase the power of your vehicle and provide good gas mileage. Additionally, you can use these spark plugs in lawn mowers, leaf blowers, generators, and ATVs.
However, there have been some complaints that they are a bit overpriced and that the difference in performance is negligible compared to other candles.
Autolite XP5683 Iridium XP
We come to the last spark plug on our list.
Autolite goes above and beyond to create a high quality, heavy duty spark plug that will impress us. The Autolite Iridium XP spark plug comes to market with its high quality, patented design and outstanding performance. For starters, the spark plug contains a 0.6mm fine wire center electrode made from a platinum alloy with iridium to improve ignition characteristics and improve the performance of your vehicle. The spark plug also features a patented V-trim technology to prevent plug wear.
In terms of further product development, the spark plug has an original equipment (OE) equivalent design. It is designed to improve overall durability with virtually no erosion, extending spark plug life. Although the plug is designed to be as vehicle compatible as possible, you will still have to check whether the product is suitable for your vehicle. However, with a great design and even greater features, this product is worth recommending!
How to check a spark plug
If you recently changed the spark plugs and noticed unstable engine operation. You can easily check them and determine if they are the cause. For example, you can check them using a special tester, which is sold in auto parts stores.
Spark plugs can also be checked for spark by unscrewing them from the block. You put the PVN on the candle, take it with pliers and lean it against the block, as shown in the figure. Ask an assistant to turn on the ignition and turn the starter. You should watch the spark at this time.
In addition, spark plugs can be checked in car services at special stands. You will have to pay for the inspection, but you will most accurately determine the quality of the spark plugs.
Unscrewing a broken spark plug with an extractor
The spark plug can be unscrewed using a special extractor. This tool is a mixture of a drill and a tap with a left-hand thread. It is specially designed for unscrewing broken bolts and studs.
The extractor is screwed into the holder counterclockwise by hand, and further insertion occurs using a wrench. After several turns, the skirt will separate from the clip, which will get stuck on the extractor and will not allow further screwing. The skirt should be removed and the countersink inserted again. Over time, the screwing force will become so great that the spark plug will give in and come out. When using an extractor, no chips are generated that can get into the cylinder and damage it.
➤ Spark plugs for Lada Granta: selection, cleaning, replacement
The vagaries and failures in the Lada Granta engine depend on many reasons. One of them: the work - good or not - of the spark plugs. Therefore, the list of necessary checks should always include monitoring their condition. Faulty Lada Granta spark plugs will inevitably lead to unstable engine operation.
Clean or change
A very important question for Lada Granta owners: how often should the spark plugs be changed? According to the manufacturer's recommendations, this procedure should be done every 30 thousand km. But harsh practice shows that not all spare parts work for the allotted time. Premature replacement of Lada Granta spark plugs may be necessary if the following symptoms occur.
- When starting the engine, the starter spins for a longer time.
- While the engine is warming up or when driving in neutral, the engine makes strange sounds.
- Fuel consumption has increased.
- Engine power has dropped. This point is especially noticeable when trying to drive up a hill.
- When you unscrew the spark plugs, you discover that they are wet from gasoline. After wiping, after several hours of movement, the candles become wet again.
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Cleaning spark plugs
If you find carbon deposits on these parts, it is not at all necessary that you will need to replace the Lada Granta 16 or 8 valve spark plugs. In many cases, it is enough to clean the existing ones. Especially if the car has not covered very many kilometers since the last replacement. It all depends on the type of soot.
- Brown, gray-yellow coating with slight wear of the electrodes. Both the spark plug and the motor are in good working order.
- Black coating of a velvety structure with a touch of soot. Either late ignition or too rich air-fuel mixture. The air filter and DTOZh must be checked.
- Oily coating. Caused by lubricant entering the combustion chamber. Possible causes include: wear of valve stem seals, piston rings, and valve bushings.
- Red soot. Appears when there are anti-knock additives in the fuel. Or the exhaust gas neutralizer has failed.
- White soot. Low quality fuel was used or the ignition timing parameters were set incorrectly.
- Ash soot. Looks like a light brown crust. The cause of the problem may be the valve stem seals.
In cases 1, 2 and 5, the spark plugs can be cleaned and used further. In 3 and 4, replacement of spark plugs is required. In the latter, it is better to install new candles, but if this is not possible, you can temporarily use the old ones after cleaning.
To restore the functionality of the candles, you need to follow this algorithm.
- Disconnect battery.
- Remove the spark plugs.
- Check the elements for the possibility of further use by analyzing the type of plaque on them.
- Pour cleaning product into the container. You can use a disposable glass.
- Dip candles into the composition and soak them in it for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Rinse the elements under cool running water, and then treat with gasoline.
- Use a brush or brush to remove any remaining dirt and wipe the spark plugs dry.
- Check with a feeler gauge whether the remanufactured spark plug meets the requirements. Lada Granta gaps should be within the limits between 1 and 1.13 mm.
- If necessary, adjust the gap of the Lada Granta spark plugs by bending the side electrode.
- Install the restored candles in their proper place.
We recommend: How to change the air filter in Lada Largus for 8 and 16 valves?
Cleaning from burning
If necessary, the working surface of the part is cleaned of burning. Do not use sharp metal objects (screwdriver, awl, scalpel) to avoid damaging the insulator. Fine sandpaper is suitable for removing carbon deposits. You can clean the electrodes thermally or chemically. Inspection is carried out every 10 thousand km of the vehicle. If the intensity of vehicle operation is low, maintenance should be carried out 2 times a year: before winter and summer.
Replacing a spare part with a new one does not guarantee its high-quality and reliable operation. The same goes for spark plugs. No one can guarantee that a new spark plug will withstand 30 thousand kilometers. Based on observations of the engine’s operation, the driver makes a decision about replacement. According to the recommendations of experts, it is necessary to change spark plugs in the following cases:
- The car doesn't start well.
- Gasoline consumption increases significantly.
- Troubles the engine.
- Engine thrust and power are reduced.
- Mileage is more than recommended.
Let's sum it up
Taking into account the above information, it becomes clear that choosing Lada Granta spark plugs for an 8-valve engine is quite simple. You can use both original solutions supplied by the manufacturer and analogues from other manufacturers.
The main thing is to choose the spark plugs correctly, that is, taking into account the basic parameters for an internal combustion engine of this type (heat rating, physical dimensions, etc.)
It is also important to buy spark plugs from trusted sellers to eliminate the possibility of purchasing a fake. Finally, we note that the above basic rules and recommendations are also relevant for many other cars with a similar type of engine (for example, selecting Grant 16 valve spark plugs and replacing them.) Difference there will only be the parameters of the spark plugs themselves, and there may also be some individual nuances in terms of replacement on a particular type of engine
Finally, we note that the above basic rules and recommendations are also relevant for many other cars with a similar type of engine (for example, selecting Grant 16 valve spark plugs and replacing them.) Only the parameters of the spark plugs themselves will differ, and there may also be some individual nuances in terms of replacement on a motor of one type or another.
Ignition system
The operation of the engine ignition system is coordinated by an electronic control unit (ECU). The unit controller receives and processes signals from the sensors, generates voltage and sends it to the ignition coil, which is produced in two types. On a 16-valve engine, the coils are located in 4 separate cases, and on an 8-valve engine, a single-case step-up transformer design is installed. This Lada Granta ignition coil has 1 primary winding with a middle terminal and 2 secondary windings. The terminals of each secondary winding are connected to the central electrodes of the spark plugs.