irridium spark plugs (Page 3/3)
armos FEB 25, 05:42 AM
If Fieros were common as Camrys, I think I'd open a business changing V6 spark plugs. A lot of people seem to loathe that job.
They are mildly difficult to get to, but not that big a deal once you find the right combination of extensions and a U-joint.
Sometimes you also need to vacuum rocks and leaves first.


I've always used copper. Originally that's because I had to take a CA emissions test every 2 years. It made sense to schedule the plugs as part of my pre-test ritual. Copper is good for a short interval.
I don't have to take tests anymore but I still use copper. I don't want to risk them seizing into the head, so I won't extend the replacement interval long enough for anything beyond copper to be useful.
1985 Fiero GT FEB 25, 09:03 AM

quote
Originally posted by armos:

If Fieros were common as Camrys, I think I'd open a business changing V6 spark plugs. A lot of people seem to loathe that job.
They are mildly difficult to get to, but not that big a deal once you find the right combination of extensions and a U-joint.
Sometimes you also need to vacuum rocks and leaves first.


I've always used copper. Originally that's because I had to take a CA emissions test every 2 years. It made sense to schedule the plugs as part of my pre-test ritual. Copper is good for a short interval.
I don't have to take tests anymore but I still use copper. I don't want to risk them seizing into the head, so I won't extend the replacement interval long enough for anything beyond copper to be useful.



Agreed! Spark plus are much easier then some things
olejoedad FEB 25, 10:36 AM
AC Delco stock copper plugs.
Front bank is easy to change if you go from the end of the block, not over the top.
3/8" ratchet and a plug socket is all that's needed.

It is absolutely imperative to make sure the spark plug well on the head is free of debris before putting a socket on the plugs.

Since you're working by feel, it helps to close your eyes.....🙂
theogre FEB 25, 01:00 PM
⚠️ Also a problem is most install the plugs way too tight making remove them next time very hard.

Cone plugs are very tight often < 1/8 Turn of a wrench after tighten by fingers until cone hits.
Other engines w/ Gasket plugs need ~ 1/4 Turn the First Time to crush the gasket but if reused latter the gasket plugs "act like" cone plugs & doesn't need same 1/4 turn.

Is why many lawn mowers to car engines w/ Al Heads & plug holes stripped because previous work over torque the plugs. In Iron heads have same + rust damage but often = plug's base metal breaks or strips.

Side Note: Is why many Plug Wrenches w/ universal joints etc are "weak" even from known good tool brands... They don't expect a lot of torque.

[This message has been edited by theogre (edited 02-25-2024).]

Patrick FEB 25, 05:26 PM

quote
Originally posted by armos:

I don't have to take tests anymore but I still use copper. I don't want to risk them seizing into the head, so I won't extend the replacement interval long enough for anything beyond copper to be useful.



I like to live life on the edge. I last changed the copper core plugs in my Formula, which is parked outside in the rain... nine years ago!

[This message has been edited by Patrick (edited 02-25-2024).]

sledcaddie MAR 15, 06:36 PM

quote
Originally posted by Patrick:

Is there any reason not to?

I always apply anti-seize to sparkplug threads, and dielectric grease to the inside of the sparkplug cable boots (at both ends).



Yes, Patrick. I took your advice years ago. I have always used dielectric grease on electrical connections like spark plug wires. I just installed the iridium plugs using anti-seize and dielectric grease.

Patrick MAR 15, 06:59 PM

quote
Originally posted by sledcaddie:

Yes, Patrick. I took your advice years ago.



Wow, someone actually listened to me? Woo hoo, my time here all these years hasn't been wasted after all!

Thanks for my feelgood moment of the day!

[This message has been edited by Patrick (edited 03-15-2024).]