E3 Spark Plugs

[moper]

When it matters, NGK race plugs. Otherwise either Autolite or Champions in that order.

[72 cuda]

 How about split-fire plugs or were they included in all the many specifications previously mentioned?

[aris_unlimited]

How about split-fire plugs or were they included in all the many specifications previously mentioned?

Never, never, never ,never!!!! Use split fire spark plugs. The very first time I tried them I was about 20 and still (stupidly) partial to the japanese cars. Bought a set of 4 of those, put them in my 240sx. Within 2 days my car was running absolutely horrible! Rechecked the spark plugs... they had manufactured 2 out of the 4 too long. Needless to say my pistons came up smashed the crap out of those plugs and dropped tons of ceramic down into my cylinders. I double checked the packages and everything to make sure I didn't screw up and get the wrong part numbers.

Went from having a perfectly running car, to having a car that burned 2 quarts of oil every 3 days...

[Supercuda]

Even if you eliminate possible manufacturing SNAFUs or defects, the split-fire is more gimmick than good part. Exotic electrode configurations are better suited to exotic engine combustion chamber designs, than to our traditional wedge- or hemi-chambered engines. Unless you need something unique because of a redesign of either the combustion chamber or the ignition system, use a standard-construction sparkplug, and choose based upon traditional plug-reading and power observations.

[wiging19]

This thread has been thoroughly enjoyable for me.  It has really helped me to make a better choice in my spark plug selection.  You want to put the best into your car that will work for it and it is good to know what others have discovered over time.  Thank you all for your input.

[ntstlgl1970]

Even if you eliminate possible manufacturing SNAFUs or defects, the split-fire is more gimmick than good part. Exotic electrode configurations are better suited to exotic engine combustion chamber designs, than to our traditional wedge- or hemi-chambered engines. Unless you need something unique because of a redesign of either the combustion chamber or the ignition system, use a standard-construction sparkplug, and choose based upon traditional plug-reading and power observations.

I think another angle to consider on the different styles of spark plugs is whether or not they are used by OEM's. If the OEM doesn't use that type/style plug they are probably just a gimmick. We used to replace split fire plugs in customers cars as step one of any driveablility diagnosis in every shop I have worked in. One thing no one else has mentioned is the overall length of the plug. In some instances, one make may be shorter (on the external side of the plug) which can help if you are running headers. Autolites are really long, AC Delco's are shorter.

[Aussie Challenger]

Somebody recommended RJ14YC Champions, these are way too hot unless you have an oil burner.
I am now partial to NGK's since Champions did something to their plugs a few years ago which made them as unreliable as Bosch which have caused more come backs for miss firing or erratic idle.
It is important to get the heat range right or the best plugs will either foul (too cold) or burn the tips off or holes in your pistons (too hot).   

[wiging19]

Over the years I've heard that heat range is important but I'm totally ignorant in that area.  I know as a kid my dad would change them out to drive from the pacific northwest to North Carolina.  Some spark plugs were better for wet climates and others were better for cross country driving.  I know it is important but how do you know what is right for your part of the country? 

[Strawdawg]

heat range of a plug refers to the ability of the plug to transfer combustion heat to the head.  This is important in order to avoid preignition and detonation as we up the power being made.  More power makes more heat and we don't want the spark plug to act like a glow plug at some point.

Here is a better explanation  http://www.autolitesparkplugs.com/charglossary.asp?kw=Heat+range

[72 cuda]

What about Bosch platinum?
Mark

[Strawdawg]

My experience with platinum plugs is that they don't work well in this kind of usage.  When making a lot of power, the small center electrode tends to cause detonation or preignition and it wears away quickly.

There is no magic to be gained from a certain sparkplug when compared to others suitable for the engine.  Some seem to be better made, or resist fouling better, but a good Champion, Autolite, NGK, etc. in a standard plug will make just as much power as the most expensive gimmick plugs (and quite possibly more) without the potential problems.  This is in our style of engines which can be hard on plugs.

[Supercuda]

72 Cuda, refer to my earlier response in this thread. Although the platinum plugs do have their uses, our oldschool engines aren't one of them.

[Chryco Psycho]

 
don`t waste your $$