spark plugs
 

hi can anybody give me some info on plug gaps for a xt600e,the manual says 0.8mm-0.9mm,this seems a very small gap and after setting it to this my bike is reluctant to tick over,any help would be appreaciated.cheers buck

0.8 to 0.9mm is actually quite large as plug gaps go. Most bikes I've owned have had gaps around 0.6 to 0.7mm.

My DR600 specified a similarly large gap though.

Hey Buck,
That's the right gap. Assuming that it is a new plug you gapped and that you still have the old one (with the old gap) then here is a test that will tell you more information.
Measure the gap on the old plug and if it is smaller put it back in the engine and see if it will start. If it only starts with a too narrow gap that probably means you have a weak spark. If it won't start with either plug I would think that the spark plug lead got damaged when you took it off or put it back on, I'm sure you allready checked but did you make sure the lead is all the way pushed down? Sorry if these suggestions aren't helpfull and best of luck.
Nate

hi thanks for the info,im going to re-check the areas you suggested and see if this will cure the problem.buck

Buck, what types of spark plug are you talking about?
I always used a DPR8EA9 but now changed to DPR9EA9 and the engine doesn't start as easily as before, but it runs better when warm.
As for the gaps, I never had to adjust them because they are always correct on new spark plugs.

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Fred, XTZ660, Holland.

hi,im using ngk dpr9ea,i am going to re-place this with a iridium ngk plug and see if this cures the problem,thanks for the input,buck