What to Do If Your Spark Plugs Are Flooded

Sometimes when you start the engine, the spark plugs get flooded with gasoline. When that happens, the engine is very hard to start. You can usually fix the problem by simply drying out the plugs. Here is how to clear a carbureted engine and a fuel-injected engine. On a carbureted engine, press the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and crank the engine with the starter. Fresh air drawn through the cylinders will dry the plugs, and the engine will start when you release the pedal. No fuel enters the combustion chamber during this process, because the throttle is fully open and the vacuum in the carburetor is minimal. But plugs can flood on more than just carbureted engines. Fuel-injected engines can flood too, and they can be cleared as well. Engage the starter, then smoothly press the accelerator pedal all the way down. The ECU will cut off fuel delivery to the combustion chamber, and the air entering the cylinders will dry the plugs. After cranking the engine for a few seconds, try starting it the normal way. If needed, repeat the clearing procedure.