Cleaning around spark plug (4-stroke)?

[g_man80]

I was just checking my valve clearances and when I removed the spark plug cap I noticed some dirt around the base of the spark plug (where it threads in). I can't seem to get a rag down there using my hand and I don't want to agitate the dirt with the spark plug out, because of the chance the dirt will fall into the cylinder.

Any suggestions for cleaning up that area? I was thinking, with the spark plug in, just using some compressed air to blow the dirt out. Thanks for any help.

G <---paranoid 4-stroke guy :ohmy:

(my first 4strk, I'm sure I'll lighten up in the future)

 

[nickyd]

you could put the plug in and then blast it with compressed air. otherwise, just leave it - that's always a tough area to keep clean.

 

[kxmike]

this is what my friend did, he took the spark plug out with the dirt there and kicked his bike with the plug out and the dirt flew out.