Change the sparkplug

[patrick_777]

Since there wasn't a concise thread on this, I decided to post a few pics of how to get access to and remove the sparkplug from the GZ. This is detailed in the manual, with pictures even, but the scan quality isn't the best and it always helps a little having more detailed pictures.

I used the OEM toolkit for the procedure. The sparkplug wrench is 4th from the left, and when paired with the screwdriver extension (3rd from left), works very well and has no problems fitting into the relatively tight space. I added some cotter pins, a sparkplug gap tool and a pair of needlenose pliers to my kit.



The sparkplug is accessed from the left side of the bike:


You have to remove the cylinder head cover plate with the small allen wrench.






Find the sparkplug wire boot and remove it by pulling up. You may have to finagle it a bit to get it to completely clear the plug top without binding up against the tank. Be careful not to crimp or break the wire or wire casing.




Use the sparkplug removal tool or a metric deep socket with a small extension to remove the plug. Remember, rotate counter-clockwise to remove it.




Clean the cylinder hole, and be careful not to drop dirt or grime onto the top of the piston. Notice the "shipping" stains on the heat dissipation fins. This is not an oil leak.


Reverse these steps to install a new plug. Don't forget to gap the new plug to the correct setting (0.6-0.7mm / 0.024"-0.028") before you install it. Tighten it with your fingers first, then torque it correctly (18N-m or 13 ft-lbs). This is generally only 1/8th turn of the plug past finger tight. NO MORE. You do not want to strip the plug threads nor damage your block.

Enjoy.