Best Type/Company for Spark Plugs (?)

[ddsohn]

It's been a while since the spark plugs for my vehicle has been changed...and since I have this weekend off, I was going to change them myself.

It seems as though that everybody is using different type of plugs (e.g. NGK, Autolite, AC Delco) and there is no uniform option on materials either (e.g. copper, platinum, iridium).

I have a stock GTP with no mods. Should I just go with stock spark plugs from GM or go with something a little better for costs/performance?

Any thoughts appreciated!

[matt5112]

stock plugs.

AC Delco 41-101's.

Gapped at 0.060".

[blueguy]

If you plan on doing simple bolt ons...I'd recommend Autolite 606's gapped at .050".

Other than that...if no mods...evah, then listen to the guy above me.

[BillBoost37]

Here's what you are asking.

Platinum plugs do not last well in our waste spark ignition system. They get eaten alive and are lucky if they survive a month before you have issues.

Iridiums are what our cars shipped with and they'll do well with them, but the fine tip of the iridium heats up and can cause predetonation which comes through as KR and a loss of power. This is usually when you are on it hard. However they do last a long time.

Copper plugs: Pick whatever brand you like, in my opnion. A copper plug disipates the heat better and throws a fantastic spark in comparison to the other types. While it's a bit old school and you'll want to replace them every 50K miles or less, they will handle the boost and treat you the best overall.

[tcman49]

How can I tell if my spark plugs need to be replaced, have 80K miles on the car, plugs may have been replaced once, not sure.

Also can I change out the spark plugs myself, heard something about the engine needs to be tipped forward to replace the back three, why would anyone design an engine like that?

TC

[01gpgt01]

The engine doesnt have to be tipped forward, I can swap my plugs in less then 10 min. Trust me theres alot harder engines to change plugs in. My wifes 2003 eclipse GTS for example you have to remove the intake manifold to get to the rear plugs

[blueguy]

Which is fun to do...same with the VG30 Maxima...been there, done that.

[ddsohn]

So I guess, Copper is best, but won't last long. Iridium is the next best thing...and platinum is just crap. So I'll go with Iridium.

What about spark plug wires? Best to just go with GM stock? Or are there better ones out there for this vehicle?

[tod1d]

stock wires are fine unless your highly modified

[blueguy]

I like aftermarket wires such as MSD's or PRJ's...because they last for damn near ever.

[SlowNA06]

I like aftermarket wires such as MSD's or PRJ's...because they last for damn near ever.

I like em cuz they come in red.

[blueguy]

I like em cuz they come in red.

We know...your inner ricer is showing

[footballplaya3k]

I prefer Autolite copper. Stock, use 606's

[SlowNA06]

We know...your inner ricer is showing

My therapist says I've been improving.

[ddsohn]

I like aftermarket wires such as MSD's or PRJ's...because they last for damn near ever.

I noticed that my stock spark plug wires have a heat shield around the end of the wire (where the spark plug fits in). Do the MSDs require the heat shield as well? Or can I just install them on itself?

I called MSD Ignitions and they told me that they don't require them, but told me to keep my old set just incase the MSD melted.

[SlowNA06]

Do the MSDs require the heat shield as well?

Nope, no need for heat shields. Some people buy boot coveres... kevlar or something like that. But if it melts, you have a bigger problem. Like fire.

[blueguy]

I noticed that my stock spark plug wires have a heat shield around the end of the wire (where the spark plug fits in). Do the MSDs require the heat shield as well? Or can I just install them on itself?

I called MSD Ignitions and they told me that they don't require them, but told me to keep my old set just incase the MSD melted.

My MSD's only melted when they sat on the header for a few hours LOL.

And even with a huge hole in the side...they work just fine

[Jack44]

How can I tell if my spark plugs need to be replaced, have 80K miles on the car, plugs may have been replaced once, not sure.

Also can I change out the spark plugs myself, heard something about the engine needs to be tipped forward to replace the back three, why would anyone design an engine like that?

TC

This should help in checking plugs... Spark Plugs

...and tipping engine forward really helps...Just undo the Dog Bones and rock engine forward...I use a ratchet tie down to hold it forward...Other guy must have real skinny arms...

Also, best to do on a cold engine for the obvious...