Skylark V6-3100 3.1L VIN M SFI (1996)
Spark Plug: Description and Operation
Tapered seat spark plugs without gaskets are used on the 3.1L 6cyl (L82) and use a resistor type, platinum tip spark plug with a 0.060" gap.
Original Equipment service parts have factory applied anti-seize. If installing a spark plug without factory applied anti-seize, apply anti-seize
sparingly to spark plug threads before installation.
Normal service is assurned to be a mixture of idling, slow speed, and high speed driving. Occasional or intermittent highway driving is needed for
good spark plug performance because it gives increased combustion heat that burns away any excess deposits of carbon or oxides that have built
up from frequent idling or continual stop-and-go driving.
Spark plugs are protected by an insulating boot made of special heat-resistant material which covers the spark plug terminal and extends
downward over a portion of the plug insulator. These boots prevent flash-over which causes engine mis-firing. Do not mistake corona discharge
for flash-over or a shotled insulator. Corona is a steady blue light appearing around the insulator, just above the shell crimp. It is the visible
evidence of a high-tension field, and has no effect on ignition performance.
Usually it can be detected only in darkness. This discharge may repel dust particles, leaving a clear ring on the insulator just above the shell. This
ring is sometimes mistakenly regarded as evidence that combustion gases have blown out between shell and insulator.
Spark plugs must operate within certain temperature limits if they are to provide the performance and service life expected. The spark plug
selected for an engine is based on the normal service which the engine was designed. Refer to SBCflON OB.
