Automobile Tune up
You will need the following to perform the Four basic steps to Tune Up an Automobile.
Parts that will be replaced during a Basic Automobile Tune Up.
Spark plugs Wires Air filter Fuel filter PCV valve
Basic Tools Needed
Spark plug socket Ratchet and extension Pliers Spark plug gap tool Screwdriver Flat head/ Philips
When performing a Tune Up, the Spark Plugs, the Spark Plug Wires, the Air Filter, the PCV Valve and the Fuel Filter are usually replaced.
1. Spark Plugs and Spark Plug Wires
Remove the spark plug wire boot from the spark plug. Grasp the boot tightly, twist it right or left to loosen and pull off the boot.
Remove and one plug at a time, one boot at a time, one spark plug wire at a time, as to not mix up the order of the spark plug wires.
Using the ratchet spark plug socket and extension if necessary, remove the plug by turning it counter clock wise.
The gap measurement can be found on a sticker inside the hood or on the fan shroud. Check the gap of the new spark plug with a gauge and adjust the outside electrode on the spark plug as necessary. Most spark plug gauges have a tool on them to adjust the gap.
Before placing the plug in the spark plug hole, apply a small amount of anti seize on the threads of the plug . Tighten the spark plug with the socket and ratchet, till snug, I a torque wrench is available, tighten to 11- 15 ft lbs.
Trace the opposite end of the spark plug wire back to the distributor or Ignition module, and remove the opposite boot. Remember, Remove and replace one plug at a time, one boot at a time, one spark plug wire at a time, as to not mix up the order of the spark plug wires
Match the new wire to the old wire as far as length is concerned. Install the new spark plug wire by firmly pushing the spark plug boot of the wire onto the spark plug until a click is heard. Do the same for the Distributor/Ignition module boot.
Repeat this procedure for the remaining cylinders/spark plugs and wires.
Remember to do one at a time and do not mix up the spark plug wire firing order.
If you have to remove all the spark plug wires, at the same time number them 1-4, 1-6 etc, to make sure each wire is installed in its proper firing order location.
2. Air Filter
To locate the air filter, look for a casing and cover over the middle of the engine or in that area. You can also follow the tube/snorkel from the throttle body back to the plastic box that holds the filter.
Take the cover off by either removing the screws or undoing the clips that hold it in place the clips are usually located on the side of the filter cover. Remove old filter Install the new filter, making sure it is in the right direction. Replace the cover by tightening the clips or screws.
Make sure to clean out any dirt that may be present and to secure the cover properly.
3. Fuel Filter.
You can locate the fuel filter by following the fuel filter back from the fuel rail or throttle body back towards the fuel tank.
The filter is usually located on the inside of the frame rail midway towards the rear of the vehicle.
Remove the fuel cap to relieve pressure in the system.
Remove the filter by loosening the fittings on both ends with a open-end wrench of the proper size.
Use two wrenches one to hold the filter and one to loosen the fuel line fitting You do not want to turn the fuel line fitting without securing the fuel filter with a wrenches the line will twist and break.
Remove the bolt that holds the fuel filter bracket to the frame. Remove the old fuel filter from the bracket.
To replace,
Install the new filter in the bracket, the bracket on the frame and the fuel lines to thee filter.
Some fuel fitter fittings require special tools to remove them, get the right tool! Some fuel filters have plastic clips that have to be squeezed and pulled at the same time to remove the fitting. Be careful not to break these.
When installing the fuel filter face it in the right direction with the flow towards the front of the vehicle.
4. PCV Valve.
The PCV Valve can be located on the valve cover of most vehicles. It is connected to the carburetor or throttle body by a vacuum hose or line. Refer to the vacuum diagram, located on the fan shroud or inside of the hood if needed. The Diagram will also list the engine size, spark plug gap, etc.
You can remove the PCV Valve by pulling it gently out of the grommet that holds it in the valve cover and disconnecting the vacuum line.
Replacement is the reveres of the above, making sure to install the Valve in the correct direction.
The four basic procedures described above are typical of what it takes to perform a Basic Automobile Tune Up.
