Spark plug gap question

A

amajamark8

Registered
Would gapping standard (non platinum) plugs at .048 possibly cause a "lugging" problem at low rpm? I'm still trying to diagnose that problem after replacing fuel filter, plugs and wires. Idle is really smooth and if you go WOT on the highway, the trans kicks down and there is no hesitation. Give it a little bit of gas when cruising at about 1000 rpm and it wants to choke and die.

If the gap isn't really a problem then I wont go through the trouble to pull them and regap.


amajamark8
 
RE: Spark plug gap question

FWIW I always gap the spark plugs at 0.048" and never have had a problem.

What mods do you have? Have you tried cleaning the MAF? Inspect the intake tube for any possible air leaks, particularily around the throttle body.
 
RE: Spark plug gap question

I'll have to dig into it again soon. I don't have any mods. It just runs like a dog on partial acceleration. I'll try cleaning the MAF, too. It's strange, it runs great and poorly, all at the same time!
 
RE: Spark plug gap question

What is the status of your O2 sensors? Might be they need to be replaced. Also if you're not already using 93 octane, give it a shot.

mark
 
RE: Spark plug gap question

I'm not quite sure of O2 sensor status, no CE light currently. I always run 93 octane. I'l have to check the TPS, also. Is that easy to get to?
 
RE: Spark plug gap question

[div class="dcquote"][strong]Quote[/strong]
... I'l have to check the TPS, also. Is that easy to get to?
[/div]

On a Gen1... no. :(
 
RE: Spark plug gap question

Certain '93 models required a TPS replacement and installation of a water shield due to water entry from a hole in the cowl. The R&R procedure is described below.

THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR
REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS

TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS

Removal

1. Remove the engine appearance cover.

2. Disconnect intake air temperature sensor and PCV closure hose.

3. Remove air inlet assembly from throttle body.

4. Disconnect throttle and speed control cables from throttle body.

5. Disconnect the vacuum fitting.

6. Remove the four throttle body retaining bolts.

7. Disconnect throttle position sensor electrical connection, then remove throttle body. Discard the throttle body gasket.

8. Remove and discard throttle position sensor, gasket and attaching screws. (See Figure 1)

9. To prevent a throttle position sensor failure due to water entry, locate the windshield wiper module assembly hole. The hole is located below the right hand wiper pivot and is used for inserting a white push pin locator for the washer system tubing. Seal around the threaded end of the push pin using non-acidic RTV sealant ESL-M4G273-A or equivalent. (See Figure 2)

NOTE: If the hole is plugged with a black rubber grommet, no sealant is required.

Installation

1. Position the new throttle position sensor to the throttle body and secure with the two new attaching screws. (See Figure 1). Tighten the screws to 1.2-1.8 N-m (11-16 lb.in.).

2. Install throttle position sensor water shield, included in the parts kit, by sliding the bottom end of the throttle position sensor into the shield, then pull the top of the shield over the top of the sensor.

3. Connect the throttle position sensor electrical connector.

4. Position the new throttle body gasket, included in the parts kit, on the intake manifold.

NOTE: Be sure to align gasket properly. Failure to do so may result in an unmetered air leak. Apply a small amount of liquid adhesive to each corner of the gasket, then place it in position on the intake manifold.

5. Install the throttle body and secure with the four retaining bolts. Tighten the bolts to 8-12 N-m (6.0-8.8 lb.ft.).

6. Connect the speed control, throttle cables and install vacuum fitting.

7. Install air inlet assembly, reconnect the intake air temperature sensor and PCV closure hose.

8. Install the engine appearance cover.
 
RE: Spark plug gap question

.o48?? i have mine gaped at .060 and im running botsh copper plugs. I think the lugging is kind of a fuel mileage thing on the marks because when i accl easy the converter "relocks", the tach dropues a bit and it surges. One way to check if it is doing that is to accl and when it starts lugging step on the brake peddel a bit so the tail lights come on. Its kind of weard how ford wires their TC unlock but it goes through the tail light ground wire.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top