spark plugs Archives - Page 7 of 7 - Tomorrows Technician
Honda Ignition Service Tips

Most Honda original equipment spark plugs have a life of more than 100,000 miles thanks to electrodes that contain precious metals like platinum and iridium. If the plugs fail sooner than the recommended interval, first solve any related problems before installing new plugs.

Making The Case For Copper Spark Plugs

Even the most advanced precious-metal spark plugs are, at their heart, made of copper. The center electrode contains a copper core, surrounded by a nickel alloy, which helps combat wear and corrosion.

Spark Plugs: Choosing A Heat Range

Choosing a set of racing spark plugs for a particular application is not as easy as it sounds because the plugs have to be closely matched to the application.

Installing Spark Plugs: Avoiding A Misfire

The potential for inadvertently creating a misfire is very real when installing new spark plugs. I say this because I’ve diagnosed many misfires created by greasy fingerprints, broken insulators and incorrect air gaps – all caused by poor installation procedures.

The Science Behind Precious Metal Spark Plugs

The higher melting point of iridium and platinum allows spark plug manufacturers to reduce the diameter of the center electrode. The smaller the diameter of the center electrode, the lower the voltage needed to start the spark. The finer point means that the electrode can absorb heat easier and faster, leading to improved acceleration, fuel consumption and smoother idling.

Torque And Gap Spark Plug Tech Tip from Bosch

Once a relatively simple task for automotive technicians, spark plug installation on modern vehicles requires a great deal of precision and care. This is especially the case with late-model vehicles with high-tech engines that have very little tolerance for improper installation or use of spark plugs. Apply the Proper Torque When installing spark plugs, a