How to Gap Spark Plugs on a 1995 Dodge Ram V8

The 1995 Dodge Ram was available in both two- and four-wheel-drive models. The V-8 engine selections for the 1995 Ram included a 5.2-liter V-8 and a 5.9-liter V-8. Over time, combustion in an engine can cause the gap between the ground electrode and the center electrode to become larger. This causes a weaker spark and degrades engine performance. Testing and adjusting the spark plug gap requires some special tools, but is not a difficult a task to perform.

Instructions

1

Raise the hood on the Ram.

2

Remove the spark plug wire from one cylinder. Grab the wire by the boot and twist the boot while pulling it off the plug. Remove the heat shield from the spark plug hole, if equipped, by compressing the cylindrical shield slightly with pliers and pulling it free from the engine.

3

Remove the spark plug from the engine, turning it counterclockwise with a ratchet, extension and spark plug socket. Spark plug sockets are specifically designed with a rubber O-ring insert to grab plugs during removal and installation.

4

Inspect the spark plug for damage. Inspect the white ceramic insulator for cracks. Inspect the plug for severe corrosion, burning or carbon deposits around the electrode and insulator. Discard the plug if there is oil on the plug, it smells of gasoline or if it is severely damaged.

5

Measure the distance between the center electrode and the ground electrode or arc, using a wire spark plug gap gauge. Use the electrode tool on the gauge to lower or raise the electrode until the 0.035-inch wire on the gauge will slip through the plug gap with just a bit of friction or physical resistance.

6

Insert the plug with the correct gap into the spark plug socket, with the threaded end facing outward. Separate the ratchet extension and spark plug socket from the ratchet. Insert the new plug into the engine, and thread it snug by hand to reduce the risk of cross threading.

7

Tighten the spark plug to 30 foot-pounds using a torque wrench, extension and spark plug socket. Insert the heat shield by compressing it with pliers, and inserting it into the spark plug hole. Tap the shield downward until it bottoms out. Insert the spark plug wire onto the plug. Make sure there is an air gap between the spark plug boot and the heat shield.

8

Repeat steps 2 through 7 to complete the spark plug gap adjustments on the rest of the engine.