Onan 5500 Spark Plugs

[txdutt]

Decided to swap out the spark plugs on the genny a few weeks ago, it only had 280 hours on it & the "recommended" interval is 500 hours. All I can say is WOW what a difference in starting & smoothness in running. The original plugs weren't fouled but had plenty of carbon build up on them. Used to take a good 10 seconds or more of cranking for it to start up, now it literally starts within 2 seconds & runs smoother. Now it's been completely serviced top to bottom and runs like top!

[luvmygolden]

How encouraging! Thanks for the info...now hubby wants to know if you figured out if this also helped with fuel usage.

michelle

[nbounder]

How exactly does one measure fuel usage of a genny - particularly when loads vary constantly?

[jaysplace]

How did you get the one on the right side out? I got the plugs and took a quick look and that one looks to be hard.

[Clay L]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jaysplace How did you get the one on the right side out? I got the plugs and took a quick look and that one looks to be hard.

I haven't done mine yet but have been reading how people got to that one and below is what I have saved.
One poster said he had an removable access panel that allowed an easy removal.


"I purchased a telescoping lug wrench that takes 1/2" sockets.
Slight "L" shape with about a two inch bend at the end with
the socket. Used a SHALLOW 13/16's spark plug socket on the
end and was able to break it loose. Worked EASIER on the left
rear one!

On the front right one, I used a 13/16's socket on a T-handle
to break it loose.

After breaking loose, I used my fingers to get them unscrewed
the rest of the way.
What a PITA but it worked!
Be sure to remove the little neoprene insert from the spark
plug socket. I had a devil of a time until I plucked those out
of each socket. Then, she fit like a glove!



************************************************** ****************************************

I hope somebody tells you different, but I had one in a Winnie
that I had to undo the bolts in the back and jack it up to
raise the side up so I could reach in far enough. Luckily I
had a lot of height in the cabinet. It was still tight but
doable.
************************************************** ********************************88

[txdutt]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jaysplace How did you get the one on the right side out? I got the plugs and took a quick look and that one looks to be hard.

a universal joint & short extension but used very small turns on the ratchet until it was loose & then unscrewed it by hand...just have to be very careful