How to Change a Spark Plug in a Toro CCR-3650

The CCR-3650 snowthrower is a gas-powered snow shovel made by Toro for residential use during the winter season. The CCR-3650's two-stroke engine is powered by a single spark plug at the top of the engine cylinder. Toro recommends an inspection of the spark plug at the beginning of the winter season to ensure that the snowthrower operates as expected. However, removing the spark plug for inspection or repair requires the partial disassembly of the snowthrower's control panel.

Things You'll Need

  • Shop towel
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Ratchet
  • Spark plug socket
  • NGK BPMR4A spark plug
  • Spark plug gapping tool
  • Torque wrench
  • Turn the ignition switch to the off position and remove the key.

  • Remove all three screws securing the control panel to the top of the snowthrower housing, using a Phillips screwdriver. Lift the control panel away to reveal the spark plug and spark plug wire.

  • Twist the spark plug wire boot, located at the top of the engine cylinder, a half-turn, then pull the boot off of the spark plug. Check the spark plug wire for cracks, splits or holes in the wire insulation that can cause a short-circuit in the ignition system. Replace the ignition coil, if the wire is damaged in any way.

  • Clear away any dirt or debris that may have settled around the base of the spark plug, using an air compressor and a blow gun attachment. Remove the spark plug from the engine, using a ratchet and a spark plug socket.

  • Check the gap -- the distance between the outer and inner electrodes -- of a new NGK BPMR4A or equivalent spark plug, using a spark plug gapping tool. The spark plug must have an 0.032-inch gap in order to operate properly. Adjust the gap as needed, using the gapping tool to bend the outer electrode. Re-check the gap before installing the spark plug.

  • Screw the spark plug into the engine by hand until it is seated against the cylinder. Tighten the spark plug to 15 foot-pounds, using a torque wrench. Push the spark plug wire boot over the spark pug until you feel it pop into place.

  • Re-install the control panel onto the snowthrower and tighten all three screws.