from previous posts, i've heard mention that the spark plug should have a light brown color to it. what exactly does tihis mean? what part of the plug itself should have that color?
The insulator nose of the plug should be tan to brown in color as a general rule. Also look close for specs on the nose...dark or light...as these can point to problems with detonation, pre-ignition or ash deposits from oil or gas. But there are definitely people more qualified to answer this than me. I've been out of it so long I feel like I'm starting all over again (is there a song in there somewhere?)... :lol:
Cernunos
Here are a few links to help you "get the hang of it":
Spark Plug - How to read a Spark Plug (http://www.dansmc.com/sparkplugs1.htm), which is Section 34 of DAN'S ONLINE MOTORCYCLE REPAIR COURSE (http://www.dansmc.com/MC_repaircourse.htm). In case you miss the well-disguised link on that page, here is a direct link to Dan's Spark Plug Reading Catalog (http://www.dansmc.com/Spark_Plugs/Spark_Plugs_catalog.html)
* How to Read Spark Plugs (http://www.off-road.com/dirtbike/tech/2002sparkplug/), an article from MXoffroad.com (http://www.off-road.com/dirtbike/).[/list:u]You can probably find additional info from manufacturer's sites (NGK, etc.)
Of course, my favorite "Quick Ref" is inside the back cover of my Haynes manual.
(http://www.bbburma.net/Scans/Haynes_SparkPlugChart.jpg)
Yes, this has been another shameless plug for the Haynes manual. (Shameless plug - get it? :lol: )