How to Change the Spark Plugs on a 2.2-liter S-10 Pickup
by Lina SchofieldUpdated November 07, 2017Items you will need
Socket wrench
Spark plug socket
Replacement spark plugs and wires (if the S-10 has wires)
Spark plug gapping tool
Dielectric grease
Chevrolet produced two different variations of the 2.2-liter S-10 pickup. One model type used the typical spark plug and wire system that connects into coil packs; the other featured coils above the spark plugs with no spark plug wires. The S-10's spark plugs should be changed as part of a regular tuneup to maintain engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Unbolt the negative battery cable from the battery terminal with the socket wrench and set the cable off to the side.
Detach the spark plug wires from the coil packs on the valve cover in the engine compartment. Pull the wires free from the spark plugs in the cylinder head.
Unplug the spark plugs with a spark plug socket and socket wrench.
Set the spark plug gap at 0.45 mm on a new spark plug, and plug the new spark plug into the cylinder head.
Apply a dab of dielectric grease inside the end caps on the replacement spark plug wire. Plug one end of the wire into the coil terminal and connect the other end of the wire into the top of the spark plug.
Repeat Steps 4 and 5 to install the remaining three spark plugs and spark plug wires.
Connect the negative battery cable onto the negative terminal on the battery. Start the S-10 to make sure the engine turns over and runs normally.
Tips
If the S-10 2.2-liter does not have spark plug wires, disregard any information pertaining to the spark plug wires and replace each spark plug using the same procedure detailed in the steps.
References
- "Haynes Repair Manual 1983 to 2004 Chevy S10 and GMC S15 Pickup/ Chevy Blazer and GMC Jimmy"; Thomsom Delmar Learning.; 1999
Writer Bio
Lina Schofield began writing professionally in 2005. She is a professional freelance writer who has worked on a variety of projects, including the founding of the quarterly publication "Propaganda." Schofield also has been published in several student collections. She received her Bachelor of Arts in English at University of Wales Trinity Carmarthen.
