2022 Chevrolet Tahoe — Spark Plug Type, Gap & Torque

Quick reference

Notes:

• GM assigns specific OE plug numbers that can change with supersessions. Always verify by VIN with a GM/ACDelco catalog before ordering. Do not mix heat ranges or part numbers across cylinders.

Why the right plug matters

• Heat range: Your Tahoe’s Gen V small-block V8s (L84/L87) need the OE-specified heat range so the plug can shed heat properly. Too hot risks pre-ignition; too cold invites fouling and misfires.
• Electrode metal:
  • Iridium (OE): Fine-wire iridium center electrodes fire reliably at low coil energy and resist wear—ideal for direct-injected engines. Expect ~97,500 miles between replacements when the engine is healthy.
  • Platinum: Serviceable, but shorter life (~60k miles). Not recommended if OE is iridium.
  • Copper: Great conductivity but short life (~30k miles). Use only for diagnostics or special cases; not suited to long service intervals.
• Design details: Resistor value, projected tip length, and shell design affect knock control and combustion in these DI engines. Stick with OE-equivalent design from a reputable brand.

How to gap a spark plug

Most OE iridium plugs arrive pre-gapped and are delicate. Still, always verify:

1. Use a round wire-style gap gauge. The spec for the 5.3L and 6.2L is 0.040 inch (1.02 mm).
2. Check gap by sliding the wire gauge through—feel a light drag.
3. If adjustment is needed, bend only the ground (side) electrode using a proper gapping tool. Do not pry on or touch the fine-wire center electrode.
4. Re-check after every small correction. If a plug is dropped or the porcelain is chipped, replace it.

Replacement procedure tips (2022 Tahoe V8)

The 5.3L and 6.2L use individual coils mounted on the valve covers with short plug leads (coil-near-plug). There is no distributor.

• Prep and access:
  • Work on a completely cool engine. Remove the engine cover and intake duct sections as needed for clearance at the rear cylinders.
  • Disconnect the negative battery cable as a safety precaution.
  • Blow out debris around each plug with compressed air before removal.
• Coil/lead removal:
  • Unplug the coil electrical connector.
  • Remove the coil pack hold-down bolts (typically 10 mm head) and lift the coil to access the short plug wire/boot.
  • Twist the boot to break the seal, then pull straight off the plug. Inspect for oil or carbon tracking.
• Plug removal and install:
  • Use a 5/8 in. spark plug socket with extension. Crack each plug loose, then back out by hand.
  • Inspect old plugs for even wear across cylinders—record any outliers.
  • Thread the new plug by hand until fully seated to avoid cross-threading the aluminum head.
  • Torque to 15 lb-ft (20 Nm). Do not overtighten.
• Anti-seize and grease:
  • GM/ACDelco plated shells are designed to install dry—no anti-seize. Adding anti-seize can lead to over-torque. If you must use it, reduce torque by ~20%, but the factory recommendation is dry.
  • Apply a small dab of dielectric grease inside each plug boot to ease future removal and help seal out moisture. Do not coat the firing tip.
• Reassemble:
  • Refit coils and connectors, route leads cleanly, and clear any harnesses from exhaust heat. Start the engine and verify a smooth idle with no misfire counts.

Known issues

• Diesel exception: The 3.0L LM2 Duramax is a diesel and has glow plugs, not spark plugs—spark plug information does not apply.
• No Ford-style 3-valve concerns: The infamous two-piece Ford plugs that seize and break are not used here.
• GDI and extended intervals: Direct injection and idle time can shorten plug life. If you tow, idle extensively, or see cold-start misfires near 80–100k, inspect plugs sooner than the maximum interval.
• Water intrusion/pressure washing: Avoid forcing water into plug wells and coil connectors; trapped moisture can cause intermittent misfires.
• DFM/AFM misfire confusion: Random misfires can also be caused by lifter/valvetrain issues unrelated to plugs. If new correct plugs don’t resolve a P0300, pursue further diagnosis.

Need plugs replaced? Find a shop on Repairius.