Which sparkplug?

[guile]

Hi guys, does anyone know which sparkplug to choose? The NGK website suggests NGK Iridium CR8EIX, but someone on this forum suggested a NGK Iridium CR7EIX. 
Can anyone help me choose?

Gijs
The Netherlands

[pedro]

I just looked it up on the NGK USA website, it says to use a CR8E standard non iridium type plug gaped at .028

http://www.ngksparkplugs.com/part_finder/motorcycles/partcloseup.asp?stocknumber=1275&partnumber=CR8E

[Alex]

I use the Iridium equivalent to the Std plug which was in the machine when supplied Kymco, cant tell you the number as I am not at home to check..still got the box I think , will look later

[juice]

The number represents the heat range you will most likely need . Higher numbers for more aggressive riding . You should probably stick to the manufacturers recommendation , unless you are very aggressive (racing) or very conservative . The person who recommended the lower heat range must think you are a more conservative rider . I really like the iridium plugs myself . Good luck .

[Hoolander2]

Kymco says to use an 8 in my carburated 2007 model.  I've replaced it with the iridium 8 and like it just fine.  You have the right part number. 

[guile]

Thanks guys, will go for the NGK IRIDIUM CR8EIX.

[guile]

Has anyone tried changing a plug on a Xciting 500?? ??
It's almost impossible without taking off all the plastic, and even then... 

Anyone interested in a brand new iridium plug? 

[Dr. Scooter]

On My 07 it only takes me about 5 mins to change the plug

[bongoman]

After the third time, I learned how to squeeze my hand into a claw that fits between the hoses and stuff. Of course, easier to change on a cold engine.

[Hoolander2]

Yeah, guile, I tried it through the hatch.  No freakin way could I do it.  So did it while I had all the plastic off for a valve adjustment.  BTW the valve adj was no piece of cake either though I got better after the third attempt! 

[Dr. Scooter]

I go up from the bottom to pull the wire from the plug and do the rest throught the hatch

[guile]

I would need a child's hand to unplug the sparkplug  

It runs fine now.
I hope never happens with the sparkplug in the future because it will be one friggin big operation to change it
I understand they solved this engineering flaw with the newer Xciting. Good work.

[msgtphil]

Once you know where the spark plug is, it's a simple task. Shouldn't remove a spark plug wire by hand, anyway. Rather than a baby's hand, a good spark plug wire removal tool makes it a 10 minute task.

[guile]

There is a special tool under the seat of my Xciting. With one side you can remove the sparkplug itself. Is the other side meant to remove the plastic plug?

[msgtphil]

A spark plug wire removal tool is a specialized pair of pliers with tips designed to go around the spark plug wire boot (plastic), they are available at any auto parts store for $10.00 to $30.00. Careful though, I paid $30.00 for one that wasn't worth a crap, broke first time I tried to use it, took it back. Sorry, don't know brand name but if you have an AutoZone near I got a nice set there for about $15.00.

Edited to add - The tools supplied with any motorbike are barely functional and meant for emergency use. A good 3/8" drive rachet, spark plug socket with insert for holding plug snug, a selection of extensions and at least one swivel joint are essential for making plug changes a simple procedure. A torque wrench is also advised, one of the most common causes of parts falilure is over tightened fasteners.