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Spark plugs for 1981 XJ550

Discussion in 'Hangout Lounge' started by Dad's XJ550, Apr 9, 2017.

  1. Dad's XJ550

    Dad's XJ550 New Member

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    Decided to change the spark plugs on my 1981 XJ550. Went to the local auto parts store. They gave me E3.36 plugs and a deep 16mm socket to fit them. Went to take out the ones in the bike and the socket does not fit. Went back to the local parts store to make sure I had the right plugs. I even took my Clymer book with the tune up specifications and showed it to them. They said the E3.36 was the right one. They gave me a 9/16 deep socket. Back to the bike and that socket did not fit either.

    So, first is the E3.36 really the same as the Clymer listed NGK D8EA, Nippon Denso X24ES-U?

    Second, I'm not a mechanic but capable of using tools for basic maintenance, what size socket do I need to remove the currently installed spark plugs? The hex size (flat size to flat side) on the new E3.36 plug is 12mm across but the old plugs labeled NGK D8EA in the bike is 14mm.

    I'm sure changing spark plugs is not this time consuming... Any comments would be appreciated.
     
    Dad's XJ550, Apr 9, 2017
    #1
  2. lostboy

    lostboy Well-Known Member

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    You need a 18 mm deep socket. I would stay with the NGK plugs as a replacement.
     
    lostboy, Apr 9, 2017
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    Stumplifter likes this.
  3. k-moe

    k-moe Pie, Bacon, Bourbon. Moderator Premium Member

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    Fancy spark plugs just cost more. They don't work any better than a regular plug.
    The E3 you got is also a resistor plug. You want a non-resistor plug, which it appears E3 does not make.

    Under the rear of the seat you should find a black plastic pouch. Inside will (hopefully) be the toolkit for the bike, including the correct sparkplug wrench.
     
    k-moe, Apr 9, 2017
    #3
    Barb and Stumplifter like this.

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